
Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange alleged that Maharashtra authorities were deliberately cancelling Kunbi caste certificates issued to members of the Maratha community. Speaking in Jalna district, he called it a conspiracy to weaken the Maratha movement and claimed Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule had directed officials to act. Jarange also warned that the community could defeat several legislators in the 2029 assembly elections.
Bawankule rejected the allegations, saying caste scrutiny committees operate independently as quasi-judicial bodies. He said neither ministers nor government officials could direct their decisions, which are based on documents and evidence. He added that people affected by committee orders can appeal to the Bombay High Court and seek interim relief. The source does not provide details of the certificates allegedly cancelled.
The dispute reflects continuing tensions over Maratha demands for access to OBC benefits. Jarange’s claims are politically serious but remain allegations in this account. Bawankule’s explanation outlines the official process, though independent verification of specific cancellations would help clarify matters. Threats of electoral punishment can intensify the debate, while appeals and documentary evidence offer a formal route for resolving individual cases.
Source: deccanherald.com
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