Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Thousands Join Rally Against SC Sub-Categorisation; Leaders Submit Memorandum

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar witnessed a large-scale protest against the government's proposed sub-categorisation of Scheduled Castes (SC) on August 12, 2026. The Anti-Sub-categorisation Committee organised the rally at Kranti Chowk during a light drizzle, drawing thousands of citizens from various Ambedkarite parties. Scheduled Castes are entitled to a 13% reservation in government jobs, a category that includes 59 distinct castes.

The community has long demanded sub-categorisation to ensure better representation and benefits. However, the state government is pursuing this move, which has sparked strong opposition. The rally commenced at Kranti Chowk and concluded at the divisional commissioner's office, where a memorandum was submitted outlining the protesters' demands.

These included the immediate cancellation of sub-categorisation, scrapping the Badar committee established for the purpose, and expediting the implementation of existing reservations. Additional demands encompassed reservations in the private sector, a special recruitment drive, and implementing quotas on a companionate basis. Notable leaders who participated in the march included Anandraj Ambedkar, MP Chandrakant Handore, former minister Babanrao Gholap, Rajkumar Badole, Baburao Mane, and numerous activists such as Prakash Kamble, Prakash Nikalje, and several others.

The procession navigated through key landmarks in the city, including Paithan Gate, Gulmandi, City Chowk, Gandhi Statue, Shahganj, and Fazalpura, before reaching the divisional commissioner's office to deliver the memorandum. Heavily-policed security ensured the safety of the demonstration.