The ongoing controversy over caste reservations in Maharashtra has drawn significant attention and concern. MNS President Raj Thackeray recently addressed the issue, emphasizing the detrimental impact of caste disputes on the society. He said, I have been alerting society for years about the negative implications of caste disputes. Politicians fuel hatred based on caste for their own gain, influencing even young children's perspectives. I previously warned that such indoctrination would continue from school to college. MNS President Raj Thackeray emphasized the need to curb the spread of casteism in Maharashtra.
In light of the upcoming elections, an MNS meeting was convened with Raj Thackeray in attendance. Addressing the controversy surrounding caste reservations, Raj stressed that Maharashtra has never succumbed to caste-based hatred. He questioned the impact on future generations if divisive tactics persist. Raj Thackeray expressed concerns about potential violence akin to that seen in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, announcing his Maharashtra tour for July. He highlighted the unfortunate reality that exploiting caste divisions for votes persists. Furthermore, Raj Thackeray highlighted the risk of escalating violence in Maharashtra and noted his upcoming tour of the state. Emphasizing the need for societal awareness, he urged unity over division along caste lines.
Additionally, MNS officials met in Bandra to review party activities under Raj Thackeray's guidance. Office bearers were instructed to provide updates on each assembly constituency by early July. The ongoing controversy revolves around the Maratha-OBC reservation issue. While Manoj Jarange Patil advocates for Maratha reservation within the OBC category, OBC leaders oppose this, sparking a contentious debate. Jarange Patil has set a deadline of July 13 for the government to address the Maratha community's demands.