Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated on Monday that the state government is committed to preventing any injustice to Other Backward Classes (OBCs). He also mentioned that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has assured of protecting their interests.
The deputy CM’s assurance comes amidst increasing protests among the OBCs following the state government’s approval of a draft notification allowing the issuance of Kunbi certificates to the blood relatives of Maratha members whose Kunbi caste is documented based on verified documents.
Speaking to reporters in Nagpur on Monday, Fadnavis said, “As long as the BJP is part of the state government, it will not allow any injustice against OBCs. The OBC reservation will remain intact. If there are concerns, it would be definitely considered with wider consultations with OBC leaders.”
The deputy CM added, “The draft notification is subject to verification. It is not a blanket decision to issue Kunbi certificates to all Marathas. I will speak with senior minister Chhagan Bhujbal. We will address OBC concerns if it is needed.”
On Sunday, OBC leaders met at Bhujbal’s residence and decided to protest against the government decision on February 3.