In a significant reversal, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange announced on Monday that he would no longer support any candidate or political party in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. Jarange, who had previously indicated his intention to back certain candidates and contest specific seats to champion the Maratha reservation cause, has now called on his supporters who filed nominations to withdraw their candidacies.
Monday marked the last day for candidates to withdraw nominations, with the state set to vote on November 20, and results scheduled for November 23.
Speaking from Antarwali Sarathi village, Jarange explained his decision: “After much deliberation, I have decided not to field any candidate in the state. The Maratha community will decide on its own whom to defeat and whom to elect. I have no affiliation to or support for any candidate or political party.” He emphasized that he was not under any pressure from either the ruling Mahayuti coalition or the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), underscoring his independence in the decision.
A Shift in Strategy
Jarange’s decision to withdraw from the electoral fray marks a notable shift from his earlier approach. Initially, he had identified constituencies where he intended to influence the outcome by either endorsing candidates or working against sitting representatives. He had even declared plans to contest 14 seats, with deliberations still ongoing for 11 additional constituencies.
However, the activist highlighted logistical challenges that influenced his decision to step back. According to Jarange, his allies who had agreed to contest the elections with his support did not submit the finalized list of candidates by the agreed-upon deadline. “They came yesterday and said they will send their list by 6-7 pm, but it never arrived,” he stated, adding, “We cannot win elections on the votes of one single community.”
Jarange’s message to his allies was clear: “We don’t have a long experience in politics. I appeal to the candidates to withdraw their forms. Our agitation for Maratha quota will continue after the elections.” He reiterated his commitment to securing reservations for the Maratha community under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, promising that the fight for Maratha rights would not waver.
A Call for Community-Driven Accountability
Jarange urged Maratha voters to engage with candidates individually to secure written or video commitments regarding support for the Maratha reservation cause. He encouraged the community to hold candidates accountable by asking for proof of their dedication to Maratha interests. “The Maratha community should help those who will give us a video that the candidate stands by our demands,” Jarange said, stressing that Marathas possess the collective influence to shape electoral outcomes.
In a stern warning to political leaders, he stated, “No one can be elected in this state without the support of Marathas.” Jarange advised Maratha community members to avoid attending political rallies and to resist being swayed by party affiliations. He suggested that voters use the ballot to hold accountable those who have, in his view, wronged or disregarded the Maratha community’s aspirations.
Focus on Grassroots Empowerment
Despite retracting his direct involvement in the election, Jarange’s influence remains strong within the Maratha community, which he believes can independently decide which candidates merit their support. He made it clear that he does not intend to target any specific candidates, adding, “I don’t wish to defeat or support anyone in particular. The people are wise enough to decide whom to vote for.”
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Although he had earlier indicated plans to support candidates in constituencies like Phulambri, Kannad, Hingoli, Pathari, and Hadgaon, Jarange has now left it up to the Maratha community to determine the most deserving representatives. He had previously named BJP-held seats in Parvati and Daund as areas where he would back candidates aligned with his cause, while also targeting incumbent MLAs from Mahayuti in regions such as Bhokardan, Gangapur, Kalamnuri, Gangakhed, Jintur, and Ausa for defeat.
Jarange’s Continued Commitment to the Maratha Cause
Jarange’s decision to withdraw from active participation in the elections reflects his evolving approach to Maratha advocacy. By opting out of the electoral process, he seeks to empower Marathas to make independent choices based on candidates’ promises to support their interests. His message to the Maratha community is one of unity and self-determination, encouraging them to use the elections as a platform for advocating their rights without aligning with specific parties.
While Jarange may not directly influence the election results by endorsing candidates, his call for accountability and his pledge to continue the struggle for Maratha reservations will likely resonate within the community.
