Maratha Quota Protest Ends in Mumbai as Manoj Jarange Accepts Government Proposal

Mumbai, Maharashtra: After five days of intense demonstrations, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange ended his hunger strike at Azad Maidan in Mumbai on Tuesday evening. The decision came after the Maharashtra government agreed to most of his key demands, including the issuance of Kunbi caste certificates to eligible members of the Maratha community.

Government Concedes to Demands

Jarange broke his fast by accepting a glass of fruit juice from Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, head of the state cabinet sub-committee on the Maratha quota. The agreement ensures that Marathas with verified records under the Hyderabad Gazette will receive Kunbi caste certificates, paving the way for reservation benefits in education and government jobs under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.

Scenes of Celebration at Azad Maidan

The protest site erupted in cheers and tears of joy as thousands of supporters celebrated the announcement. “We have won, my friends,” Jarange told the crowd, acknowledging their support throughout the agitation.

Local police and civic authorities worked to manage the large gatherings, which had caused traffic disruptions in South Mumbai over the past several days, especially around Marine Drive, DN Road, and P D’Mello Road.

Background of the Protest

The protest began on August 29, 2025, with over 35,000–45,000 supporters joining the indefinite sit-in at Azad Maidan. The agitation gained momentum after earlier government delays in meeting quota demands, leading to heightened tensions and a directive from the Bombay High Court to maintain order during the demonstrations.

Next Steps

Government officials confirmed that formal Government Resolutions (GRs) would be issued soon to implement the agreement. Cases filed against protesters during the agitation are also expected to be withdrawn by the end of September.

Jarange, while thanking the community for their discipline and support, said the movement would continue to monitor the government’s actions to ensure timely implementation of the promises.