In Kolhapur, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde addressed criticisms regarding the bill granting 10% reservation to the Maratha community. He noted that those who claimed the bill would not hold up in court failed to provide any substantiated reasons for their assertions. Shinde emphasized the importance of positive discussions to ensure the effectiveness of the quota benefits.
Several leaders had likened the current bill to previous ones that were struck down by the court in 2014 and 2018. Shinde defended the government’s efforts in drafting the bill, citing a thorough survey that highlighted the social and educational backwardness of the Marathas. He praised the work of experts and the Maharashtra State Backward Classes Commission in addressing the reservation issue.
During a meeting with Rajya Sabha member Chhatrapati Udayanraje Bhonsle, Shinde urged the Maratha community to cooperate with the government and refrain from staging any protests. He also announced that Udayanraje Bhonsle would lead the conservation work of the historic Pratapgad fort in Satara district, for which the government had allocated Rs 381 crore for various projects.
Shinde expressed confidence that under Udayanraje Bhonsle’s leadership, the fort would be restored to its former glory from the time of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding the law and urged for support from the Maratha community in this endeavor.
हिन्दी 