Maratha Quota Activist Manoj Jarange Withdraws Support for Candidates Ahead of Maharashtra Assembly Elections

Manoj Jarange, an activist advocating for Maratha reservation, announced on Monday that he will not support any candidates or political parties in the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, scheduled for November 20. He also called on his supporters, who had filed nominations, to withdraw their candidacies before the final deadline.

Jarange's announcement marks a significant shift from his earlier position, where he had indicated potential support for specific candidates. Speaking to reporters from his village in Antarwali Sarathi, Jarange explained, “After careful consideration, I have decided not to field any candidates. The Maratha community will independently decide whom to support or reject. I have no affiliation with any candidate or party.”

The activist also emphasized that he was acting without influence from either the ruling Mahayuti alliance or the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). "I am under no pressure from anyone. The community will judge candidates based on their commitment to the Maratha cause," he added, advising voters to demand written or video pledges from candidates promising to champion Maratha interests.

Confident in the community’s electoral sway, Jarange remarked, “No one can win in this state without Maratha support.” He further urged community members to avoid political rallies and resist party influence, adding, “Those who have wronged or harassed the Maratha community should be held accountable at the ballot box.”

Reiterating his commitment to securing Maratha reservation under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, Jarange affirmed that his fight for quota rights will continue unabated. The election results are set to be declared on November 23.​