Those claiming Hindus in danger denying reservation to Marathas: Manoj Jarange Patil

Maratha quota activist criticizes 'Mahayuti' government for neglecting Marathas, vows to defeat anti-reservation parties in polls.

Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil has said those who claim Hindus are in danger and seek their unity are responsible for denying reservation to Marathas, as he claimed that voters are ready to hand over a drubbing to the BJP-led ruling coalition in the Maharashtra Assembly polls.

In his most explicit attack on the 'Mahayuti' government, he said interest of every section of society has suffered on its watch, asserting that Marathas will show their might in the polls.

In an interview to PTI, the 42-year-old activist, who has rallied a large section of Marathas in support of his demand for OBC quota for them, alleged that those who claim to work for Hindu unity have used his community to target Muslims but ignored its genuine demands.

"If you claim Hindus are in danger, then what about Marathas? Can't you see their children's troubles? If you say Hindus are in trouble, then it is also your responsibility to ensure the welfare of Marathas. A Hindu opposes us when we demand reservation, but when they have to target Muslims, they need Marathas to run after them with sticks," he said.

He was reacting to the BJP's slogans such as "batengein to katengein" and "ek hain to safe hain". Who will cut Hindus, he asked, noting that Marathas are the biggest Hindu caste in the state.

"We will settle our issues among ourselves. We follow the Hindutva of Chhatrapati (Shivaji). We will look after ourselves, you mind your own business," he added.

In his statements ahead of the November 20 polls, Patil has refrained from directly naming any party but the common belief among his supporters is that he is against the incumbent, especially the BJP.