Maratha quota: Deputy CM Fadnavis assures govt committed to giving reservation amid protests

Devendra Fadnavis/ File Photo

Amid the ongoing Maratha quota agitation across Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis affirmed the government's optimistic stance on providing reservations for the Maratha community, stated a report in ANI. Fadnavis strongly condemned the violence that transpired in Beed, Maharashtra, on Monday and assured that rigorous measures would be taken against those inciting violence.

Addressing the situation, Fadnavis was quoted in the report saying, "The incident that happened in Beed yesterday cannot be supported. The government is very positive about giving reservations to Marathas. Some decisions have been taken regarding it today as well. But some people are trying to spread violence, and it will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against them." He made these remarks after participating in a cabinet meeting.

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Fadnavis also noted that CCTV footage related to the Beed incident has been obtained, and actions will be taken in accordance with IPC Section 307, as individuals visible in the footage attempted to harm and set people on fire. He stressed the gravity of the situation and assured that adequate forces are deployed in necessary areas. Silent protests, however, will not face any action, stated the report.

According to the report, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also responded to the Beed violence, emphasizing the government's commitment to maintaining law and order. He stated, "Our government is trying to maintain law and order in the state. The government is paying full attention to those who are trying to instigate and disrupt the law and order in the state. It is the government's duty to give Maratha reservation that is fully proven and within the ambit of the law...We are working at war footing. The government is positive about giving reservations to Marathas."

MLA Chandrakant Patil, who was part of the cabinet meeting, reported that after more than 40 days of work, the Justice Shinde committee has proposed that out of 1.72 crore documents collected, around 13,500 documents are valid. These documents pertain to individuals with three generations of 'Kunbi' heritage, and the committee has recommended granting them a 'Kunbi' certificate. Further data collection has been instructed.

Meanwhile, the situation in Beed, Maharashtra, has returned to normalcy, with heavy security personnel deployed after protests erupted on Monday. District Collector Deepa Mudhol Munde reported that the situation is peaceful, and there have been no law and order issues since October 30. Section 144, limiting gatherings to four people, remains in effect, and an internet ban has been imposed.

The Maratha reservation issue has seen several incidents of violence in recent days.