Maharashtra Man Commits Suicide Over Dhangar Community's ST Reservation Delay

A 33-year-old man from Maharashtra's Beed district died by suicide, leaving a note expressing frustration over delayed ST status for the Dhangar community. The community, comprising 9% of the state's population, currently receives 3.5% reservation under NT-C category but demands ST classification based on similar socioeconomic conditions to Scheduled Tribes.

Maharashtra Man Dies By Suicide At Home, Note Points To Reservation Issue

In Beed district of Maharashtra, a 33-year-old individual took his own life, reportedly due to frustration over the prolonged wait for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status designation for the Dhangar community, according to officials.

The deceased, identified as Yogesh Baban Chaure from Madalmohi in Gevrai tehsil, was found hanging from a ceiling fan in his residence on Saturday morning around 8:30 am, after taking the tragic step late Friday night.

Police discovered a note in Chaure's pocket expressing his distress regarding the continued delay in granting ST category reservation status to the Dhangar community. The authorities have initiated an investigation and registered a case at the Gevrai police station.

Chaure leaves behind his wife and brother as surviving family members.

The Dhangar community, traditionally engaged in shepherding and cattle-rearing, comprises approximately 9 percent of Maharashtra's population. Currently, they receive 3.5 percent reservation under the Nomadic Tribes (NT-C) classification within the OBC quota. However, community members have consistently advocated for ST status, contending that their socioeconomic conditions mirror those of Scheduled Tribes.

Helplines for mental health support include Vandrevala Foundation (9999666555 or help@vandrevalafoundation.com) and TISS iCall (022-25521111, available Monday through Saturday, 8 am to 10 pm). Those in need of support, or who know someone requiring assistance, are encouraged to contact their nearest mental health specialist.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/maharashtra-man-dies-by-suicide-at-home-note-points-to-reservation-issue-9479494