Manoj Jarange, a well-known activist fighting for the rights of the Maratha community in Maharashtra, has become a prominent figure in the state. He has been actively involved in mobilizing people for the Maratha Kranti Morcha’s silent marches and leading protests demanding reservation. Jarange’s determination and refusal to give up have made him a symbol of the Maratha quota agitation. Unlike political leaders, he is seen as someone without any vested interests. Learn more about his journey and activism.
In 2016, Jarange launched an agitation following the rape and murder of a minor girl in Ahmednagar’s Kopardi village. He played a significant role in mobilizing people for the Maratha Kranti Morcha’s silent marches across Maharashtra, demanding justice for the Kopardi case and reservation. Jarange also led a large rally in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and organized the participation of villagers from Jalna in the silent march in Mumbai.
His activism continued with a 90-day dharna in Jalna’s Sasth Pimpalgaon village in 2021, demanding Maratha reservation. Later that year, he protested in Gori Gandhari village, demanding compensation for the families who lost their loved ones during the Maratha quota agitation.
Jarange gained national attention when the police attempted to force him to end his hunger strike in September. Currently, he is leading a similar protest in Antarwali Sarati village, receiving strong support from the locals. Villagers recognize the importance of his cause and even sacrifice their personal time to join the agitation.
Unlike political leaders, Jarange is seen as someone without any vested interests. Villagers across Ambad tehsil have witnessed his activism over the years, contributing to the spontaneous support he receives. His determination and refusal to give up have made him a symbol of the Maratha quota agitation, with supporters highlighting his involvement in similar protests for the community in the past.
Jarange’s journey has seen him take on various roles, from working as a cashier to being the president of Jalna’s Youth Congress. In 2011, he founded his own organization called ‘Shivba Sanghatna’ and started working for the social upliftment of the Maratha community.
Born in Matori village in Marathwada’s Beed district, Jarange’s early years were spent working on his family’s farm. His passion for history and admiration for Shivaji Maharaj led him to stage a play on Shivaji Maharaj, for which he sold a portion of his ancestral land.
Despite his parents’ hopes that marriage would calm his activism, Jarange’s dedication remained unwavering. He now resides in Mohite Vasti, around 10km from Antarwali Sarati, with his family who supports his efforts wholeheartedly.
This article was originally published in TOI.
