The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) expressed support for cabinet minister Chhagan Bhujbal, a senior OBC leader, in his divergence from the Maharashtra government’s actions regarding Maratha reservation. NCP State President Sunil Tatkare, representing the Ajit Pawar group, stated, “Bhujbal is a senior minister in the state cabinet. He knows the functioning of a cabinet. He is a straightforward speaker, and he must have presented his side inside the cabinet as well.” Tatkare emphasized Bhujbal’s right to present his stance publicly, despite potential contradictions with the government’s decisions.
Bhujbal had urged a stay on Kunbi (OBC) certificates for Marathas, questioned the Justice (retired) Sandeep Shinde Committee’s relevance, and suggested a comprehensive study of the backwardness of all communities. This stance conflicted with Maratha social activist Manoj Jarange Patil’s call for Kunbi certificates for Marathas.
While Shiv Sena, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, expressed discontent with Bhujbal’s public statements, NCP stood by him. Tatkare clarified, “Cabinet and topics discussed is one part, but he also has a right to present his side about happenings outside the cabinet.” NCP reiterated its support for Maratha reservation, ensuring it stands the test of the law. Tatkare emphasized the need to extend Maratha reservation without reducing OBC reservation.
