Maratha Reservation: Fadnavis says 'ready for talks', protest to intensify on Aug 9

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday accused "certain leaders" of trying to create caste division in Maharashtra.

Maratha Kranti Morcha protesters pelt stones at police personnel during their statewide bandh, called for reservations in jobs and education, in Navi Mumbai. PTI Photo

Mumbai: Maratha reservation agitators have given the government time till August 9, 2018, to sort out issues relating to reservation for Marathas. Earlier, MKM leaders had already set August 9 as the day of the state-wide bandh, however, outrage over the suicide of Kakasaheb Shinde gave rise to the spontaneous agitation on Tuesday. The 28-year-old jumped to his death into Godavari river. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday accused "certain leaders" of trying to create caste division in Maharashtra. To the Maratha community who has been protesting for reservation, he said that they should come forward for talks with the government instead of resorting to agitation and violence. Fadnavis said his government was committed to providing reservation to the community but pointed out that the issue was pending before the Bombay High Court. In a statement issued here, Fadnavis said that after peaceful silent marches taken out by Maratha agitators two years ago, his government took several decisions for the welfare of the community. Fadnavis said his government was committed to granting reservations in jobs and education to the Marathas and pointed out the government passed a law in this regard, but it was struck down by the high court. The state appealed against the high court decision in the apex court but could not get a stay, he said. He also alleged that "Certain political leaders" are trying to create caste divisions to derive political mileage, he alleged.