After Marathas, Dhanghars demand for reservation

After the Maratha community, the Dhangar community in Maharashtra took to the streets on Monday seeking reservation in educational institutes and jobs.

Dhangars are shepherds who demand their inclusion in Scheduled Tribe category.

The agitation coincided with the death anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar (May 31, 1725 – August 13, 1795), who was the Holkar Queen of the Maratha Malwa kingdom.

Throughout the day, there were peaceful protests across the state under the banner of Dhangar Sangharsh Samiti Maharashtra Rajya (DSSMR).

Dhangar account for nearly a crore in terms of population in Maharashtra and they are generally settled in Marathwada and Western Maharashtra regions.

The community is currently listed under Vimukti Jati and Nomadic Tribes (VJNT).

The Centre provides quota benefits to "Dhangad" community but in Maharashtra, they do not because of different spelling, "Dhangars".

"There has been a delay, however, a time frame has to be set and reservation under ST category has to be extended," said Vikas Mahatme, DSSMR leader and Rajya Sabha member.