Escalating Tensions in Maharashtra's Mahayuti Alliance Over OBC Reservation Issue

Mumbai:

Fissures have emerged within the Mahayuti alliance as tensions escalate between Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of local body elections. NCP leader and minister Chhagan Bhujbal has delivered a pointed critique of the BJP, cautioning about potential electoral repercussions if the party fails to secure justice for the Other Backwards Classes (OBC) community.

Speaking at an OBC Elgar Sabha in Beed, Bhujbal encouraged community members to "teach a lesson" to those who he claims have opposed OBC interests in upcoming elections. He specifically criticized BJP minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil for allegedly yielding to Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil's reservation demands under the OBC category, which subsequently resulted in a controversial government resolution (GR).

Bhujbal contended that Vikhe Patil had "spread venom across Maharashtra" by advocating for the GR. According to him, the original order referenced "eligible Marathas," but this terminology was purportedly removed within an hour following Jarange's objection, despite the Chief Minister's absence from the city. Bhujbal warned the BJP that the OBC community, which he asserted had helped the party secure 125 to 130 MLAs, would respond if they faced injustice.

In his defense, Vikhe Patil clarified that the government had operated strictly within legal parameters and assured that OBC reservations would remain protected. While expressing respect for Bhujbal as a senior leader, he dismissed claims that the issue had created division between OBC and Maratha communities.

Vikhe Patil emphasized that Maharashtra has historically maintained social harmony. "We are celebrating Diwali now, has there ever been an 'OBC Diwali' or a 'Maratha Diwali'?" he questioned, reinforcing his point about societal unity.

The minister also noted that Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had affirmed that "OBCs are in our DNA," suggesting there was no basis for misunderstanding. He added that the government had addressed the Maratha quota issue in Marathwada while adhering to legal constraints.

Vikhe Patil expressed intentions to meet with Bhujbal personally, accompanied by Justice Shinde, to explain the government's position and resolve any misunderstandings. He praised Jarange-Patil for conducting his agitation "sincerely and selflessly," and defended the government's actions as lawful and necessary.

"Targeting him or questioning his education is wrong," he stated, adding that after Diwali celebrations conclude, the government plans to invite OBC leaders and Justice Shinde for a comprehensive discussion on the matter.