'Ek Maratha, lakh Maratha': Jarange-Patil brings Maratha agitation to Mumbai, vows no retreat

With saffron-clad supporters flooding Mumbai during Ganeshotsav, Jarange-Patil declared the fight for Maratha reservation the “final battle”, setting the stage for a showdown near Maharashtra’s power centres.

Mumbai: Invoking Lord Ganesh and Chhatrapati Shivaji, Manoj Jarange-Patil entered Mumbai on Friday, calling it the “final battle” for Maratha reservation as thousands from across Maharashtra joined under the slogans ‘Chalo Mumbai’ and ‘Ek Maratha, Lakh Maratha’.

The mobilisation turned parts of the city into a sea of saffron, coinciding with Ganeshotsav, which the state has declared the Rajya Mahotsav (State Festival). “Manoj Dada… aage bado, hum tumhare saath hai” echoed through the streets as his cavalcade moved through Mumbai.

Jarange-Patil, founder of Shivba Sanghatana and the face of the agitation for nearly two years, reiterated that he would not step back. His demand is the implementation of reservation for Marathas under the Kunbi category, already recognised within the OBC quota — a move strongly opposed by sections within the OBC community.

For the first time, Jarange-Patil will stage an agitation at the historic Azad Maidan, located close to Mantralaya and Vidhan Bhavan, the state’s power centres. Both the Maharashtra government and the protesters have signalled willingness for dialogue.

The Mumbai Police has permitted Friday’s protest at Azad Maidan with specific conditions, while security across the city has been tightened. The Mumbai Traffic Police has also imposed restrictions to manage congestion. Meanwhile, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken steps to prepare the protest site, including ensuring the ground is free of slush.

Wearing saffron caps and scarves, demonstrators voiced optimism that the government would respond positively. “We will take reservation and go back,” said Suresh Pawar from Hingoli. Jay More, who joined from Junnar in Pune district, added, “We have worked for politicians; now it is time they ensure reservations for us.” Another protester said, “We have been struggling for two decades. It is time the government accepts our demand.”