CM recalled past Maratha reservations by his and Shinde’s governments; current MahaYuti considers demands legally
Mumbai
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday stressed that his government would not act outside the framework of the Constitution while addressing the ongoing demand for Maratha reservation under the OBC quota. He said any decision taken beyond the law would not survive court scrutiny and could ultimately cheat the people.
Fadnavis made the remarks as pro-Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil intensified his protest in Mumbai. “No matter how much anyone criticises me, I cannot go beyond what is in the Constitution of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. The Supreme Court and High Court have already given verdicts. We cannot ignore them,” he said.
The Chief Minister recalled that both his and Eknath Shinde’s governments had extended reservation benefits to the Maratha community earlier. He added that the current MahaYuti government was considering the present demands but within legal limits.
Commenting on the ruckus during NCP (Sharad Pawar) MP Supriya Sule’s visit to Azad Maidan, Fadnavis said leaders must be treated with respect and warned against creating disturbances. He urged all sides to seek solutions through dialogue rather than rigid stances.
The Chief Minister explained that a cabinet sub-committee, led by Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, was examining the issue, consulting legal experts, and studying earlier judgments. “The government runs by law. We will use all legal provisions to find a solution,” he assured.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena leader Amit Thackeray appealed to his party workers to support the protesters with food, water, and medical aid, ensuring no Maratha activist feels abandoned.
Fadnavis reiterated that any decision must respect social balance and endure in law rather than serve as a temporary appeasement.
