Maratha Quota Protests: Protests Erupt in Maharashtra Over Quota Reduction

Protests erupted in the Indian state of Maharashtra over the government’s decision to reduce the quota for Maratha students in educational institutions and government jobs. The Maratha community, which makes up about 30% of Maharashtra’s population, has been demanding reservation for decades, arguing that they are socially and economically backward.

In 2018, the Maharashtra government passed a law granting 16% reservation to Marathas in education and 12% in government jobs. However, the Supreme Court struck down the law in 2021, citing a lack of evidence to support the claim that Marathas are a backward community.

The recent quota reduction has angered many Marathas, who feel that the government is not doing enough to help their community. Protests have broken out across the state, with protesters blocking roads, burning buses, and vandalizing public property.

The Maharashtra government has appealed to the Supreme Court to restore the Maratha quota. However, it is unclear when the court will hear the case. In the meantime, the Maratha community has vowed to continue its protests until their demands are met.