Couple Supports Maratha Morcha Protesters with Home-Cooked Meals

The ongoing Maratha agitation at the CIDCO Exhibition Centre in Navi Mumbai took a heartwarming turn on October 3, 2023, when local residents Balram and Alka Patil delivered home-cooked meals to the protesters. The couple expressed their solidarity with the Maratha community, viewing them as family and standing in support of their fight for rights and reservations.

The Patils shared their personal connection to the cause, highlighting a poignant example. “Our son could not secure admission to IIT Bombay because he fell short by just two marks,” Balram Patil said. “If we had the benefit of reservations, he would have been studying there today.”

As the couple distributed meals, they reiterated their support for Manoj Jarange, a prominent leader in the movement. Their gesture resonated deeply with the protesters, many of whom have been advocating for their rights for months.

Joy and Unity Among Protesters

By the evening, jubilant celebrations erupted across the APMC market and surrounding areas as news broke that the state government had accepted Jarange’s demands. Groups of protesters danced and chanted slogans, their spirits lifted by a sense of victory.

“This is a historic moment for us,” said Rahul Shinde, a 29-year-old protester from Beed. “Manoj Jarange has fought tirelessly for months, and finally our voices have been heard.”

Another supporter, Snehal More, 32, echoed this sentiment. “We were waiting for this day for so long. Today, our community stands stronger and more united than ever before. The atmosphere here is like a festival.”

Adding to the celebration, Mahadev Patekar, a farmer from Beed, reflected on the significance of the decision. “We left our farms to be here, and today, we feel it was worth every struggle. The government’s decision is not just for us, but for the future of our children.”

Protests and Celebrations Coexist

As the festivities continued, one protester at the CIDCO Exhibition Centre summed up the collective sentiment: “Jarange’s hard work and sacrifice has finally borne fruit. Now, we are just waiting for the government resolution (GR) by 21:00.”

Despite the widespread joy, a small group of Maratha supporters staged a brief protest near Vashi Bridge, resulting in minor traffic disruptions. However, for the thousands gathered at the exhibition centre, the day concluded with a renewed sense of hope, unity, and accomplishment.

The Maratha agitation represents a critical moment for the community, as they continue to advocate for their rights and recognition. As the Patils and countless others stand in solidarity, the movement embodies both personal stories and collective aspirations for a just future.