Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal met with NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar to discuss the Maratha quota issue and objections raised by OBC leaders.
Bhujbal, an OBC leader from the faction of NCP led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, met with Sharad Pawar amid rising tensions over the Maratha quota issue.
This visit followed Bhujbal's indirect criticism of Sharad Pawar after the opposition's boycott of an all-party meeting on the Maratha quota convened by CM Shinde. Bhujbal claimed the boycott was influenced by a call from Baramati, Sharad Pawar’s stronghold.
The Maratha quota issue has been a major point of contention in Maharashtra politics. The opposition parties, including the Congress, NCP (SP), and Shiv Sena (UBT), boycotted an all-party meeting called by CM Shinde, alleging they were not consulted regarding the Maratha reservation issue. Bhujbal accused the opposition of acting on instructions from Sharad Pawar, a claim Pawar is expected to address in his upcoming discussions with the state leadership.
Activist Manoj Jarange has been advocating for the Maratha community to be included under the OBC category for reservations. This has sparked protests from some OBC activists who fear their existing quotas may be compromised.
Bhujbal highlighted the growing division between the Marathas and OBCs, emphasizing the urgent need for Pawar’s intervention to de-escalate tensions and foster a cooperative resolution.
Bhujbal reminded Sharad Pawar of his pivotal role in implementing the Mandal Commission's recommendations during his tenure as Maharashtra's chief minister. The commission's policies provided significant reservations for OBCs in education and local elections. Bhujbal urged Pawar to leverage his experience and influence to mediate the current dispute, given the gravity of the situation in several districts.
Bhujbal noted that his meeting with Pawar was delayed as the latter was resting due to ill health. Despite this, Pawar agreed to discuss the matter and assured Bhujbal he would engage with key leaders, including CM Shinde, once he felt better. This commitment indicates Pawar’s continued involvement in critical state issues despite his health challenges.
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