Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil continued his indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan on Saturday, marking the second day of a high-stakes protest demanding that all Marathas be recognized as Kunbis under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category for reservation in education and government jobs.

Despite overnight rains creating muddy conditions and a lack of basic amenities like water and toilets, Jarange and thousands of supporters remained resolute, accusing the Maharashtra government of neglecting their demands and exacerbating community tensions.

Jarange, 43, warned that he would stop consuming water within two days if the government delays action, predicting an influx of more Marathas to Mumbai. “We are asking for what is our right. This is our final fight,” he declared, refuting claims of seeking to reduce existing OBC quotas.

The activist criticized the government for allegedly fostering division between Marathas and OBCs, while supporters faced logistical challenges, including locked public toilets and closed food stalls near Azad Maidan. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis acknowledged the state’s willingness to address social and financial issues within constitutional limits, with a cabinet sub-committee actively reviewing Jarange’s demands.

The protest, which has disrupted traffic near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters, saw hundreds of supporters taking shelter in vehicles and at CSMT overnight. Oppositionmillions of daily commuters struggled with severe traffic congestion. Opposition MPs and legislators from Marathwada expressed solidarity with Jarange, amplifying the political pressure on the government.

This marks Jarange’s eighth hunger strike since 2023, following a similar protest in January that ended after government assurances, which he claims remain unfulfilled.

Also Read: Jarange Sees ‘Right Time’ for Fadnavis to Grant Maratha Quota

Also Read: CM Dhami Leads Relief Efforts as Rains Ravage Uttarakhand’s Tharali