Bawankule Won't Object To Criticism Amid Maratha Quota Row

Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule stated on Thursday that he would not object to criticism or mocking by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange if it brings him happiness or justice.

Bawankule, an OBC leader himself, made this statement in response to Jarange's recent criticism after a Maratha-Kunbi OBC certificate was cancelled by authorities in Beed district.

The minister said that if criticising or making fun of him helps Jarange get justice, he is free to do so and he will not say anything against him. Bawankule also mentioned that his family has ties to both the Kunbi and Maratha communities, with his wife being from the Kunbi community and his daughter-in-law being Maratha.

He emphasized that his family lives together harmoniously and does not believe in Kunbi-Teli-Maratha disputes. Bawankule also pointed out that the revenue department has issued around 22 lakh Kunbi caste certificates, with only one certificate being found incorrect, and an inquiry was ordered into it.

The minister clarified that the revenue department is responsible only for issuing caste certificates, while caste validity scrutiny falls under the jurisdiction of the social justice department.

Bawankule requested the OBC community not to hold protests on the roads over Jarange's comments, as it could lead to social tensions and create law and order issues. He suggested that any legal battle should be fought through lawful means.

Jarange has demanded that eligible members of the Maratha community be given Kunbi caste certificates, so that they could get reservation under the OBC quota. However, OBC leaders in the state have opposed the demand.

The Maratha quota issue has been a contentious topic in Maharashtra, with various groups and leaders weighing in on the matter. The state government has been working to address the issue, but a resolution has yet to be reached.

In the meantime, Bawankule's statement has been seen as an attempt to diffuse tensions and promote harmony between different communities. However, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold in the coming days.

The Maratha community has been seeking reservation under the OBC quota, but the issue has been complicated by the fact that the community is not uniformly classified as OBC. The state government has been working to address the issue, but a resolution has yet to be reached.

As the situation continues to unfold, it is likely that there will be further developments and statements from various leaders and groups. For now, Bawankule's statement has been seen as a positive step towards promoting harmony and understanding between different communities.

In conclusion, the Maratha quota issue remains a complex and contentious topic in Maharashtra, with various groups and leaders weighing in on the matter. While Bawankule's statement has been seen as a positive step, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold in the coming days.