Beed (Maharashtra), Sep 16 — On the 19th day of his indefinite hunger strike, Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil on Wednesday announced that he remains steadfast in his march to Mumbai. He declared that he will leave Patoda on Thursday afternoon despite severe health complications and medical warnings against travel.
Addressing a press conference in Patoda, Beed, Jarange Patil confirmed that acute weakness forced him to accept intravenous (IV) fluids and water on the advice of local spiritual leaders. Doctors examining the activist advised immediate rest, warning that continuous travel during a prolonged fast poses severe health risks.
Reaffirming his resolve to reach Azad Maidan, Jarange Patil stated he would resume his journey past 1:00 p.m. on Thursday. Bypassing initial overnight halts at Shrigonda, Hadapsar, and Khopoli, he intends to drive directly towards the state capital.
Jarange Patil urged followers trailing his convoy to return to their native villages or Antarwali Sarati. He instructed them to march to Mumbai only if authorities attempt to block his entry. Demanding strict implementation of the Shinde Committee's Government Resolution (GR) and a revised GR regarding the Hyderabad Gazette, he criticised the perceived marginalisation of Marathas in Western Maharashtra.
While acknowledging receipt of a newly dispatched draft agreement from the state government, the activist emphasised he would review its contents before deciding his next steps.
Responding to the escalating situation, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis urged the activist to reconsider marching to Mumbai, citing law-and-order concerns and the ongoing Ganeshotsav festivities. He stated that 12 out of 13 primary demands have been accepted. He urged against crowding Mumbai during Ganeshotsav due to public inconvenience, while maintaining that doors remain open for dialogue.
However, Jarange Patil insisted on reaching Azad Maidan directly. He warned the state government that any attempt to block the march or force a crackdown could lead to political fallout.
A delegation of state ministers is expected to meet Jarange Patil in Patoda to negotiate the draft terms before he departs for Mumbai.