Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has launched a blistering attack on Sharad Pawar, Nana Patole, and Uddhav Thackeray, challenging them to clarify their positions on the contentious issue of Maratha reservation under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.
At a recent conclave organized by News18 India in Mumbai, Fadnavis demanded that leaders of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) stop evading the issue and provide clarity to the Maratha community.
Accusing the leaders of playing political games with the aspirations of the Maratha community, Fadnavis stated: “I challenge Sharad Pawar, Nana Patole, and Uddhav Thackeray to come forward and clearly state their position. The Maratha community deserves to know where you stand on their demand for inclusion in the OBC category.”
The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) efforts to secure a 10 percent reservation for the Marathas during their tenure, acknowledging the legal challenges that followed. However, he shifted focus to the MVA, questioning their lack of clarity and action on the matter.
“Our decision may have faced legal hurdles, but at least we acted decisively. What has the MVA done? Nothing but hide behind vague promises and empty rhetoric,” Fadnavis asserted, portraying the opposition as indifferent to the Maratha community’s needs.
Fadnavis was particularly scathing in his criticism of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar, accusing the veteran leader of failing to address the community’s concerns. He also called out Congress leader Nana Patole and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for their perceived inaction.
The ongoing debate over the Maratha reservation has intensified in recent months, with various political factions taking opposing stances. The issue remains a significant flashpoint in Maharashtra’s political landscape, and the pressure on leaders to clarify their positions continues to mount.
