Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil begins ‘decisive’ fast, targets Devendra Fadnavis

Maratha activist Manoj Jarange began his eleventh hunger strike on August 29, 2026, in Antarwali Sarati, demanding the issuance of Kunbi certificates to all 58 lakh applicants whose records were verified. The Water Resources Minister, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, met with Jarange and officials before the activist commenced his fast.

Vikhe Patil claimed that only 0.3% of the applications have been rejected, asserting that certificates have been issued to those who complied with government regulations. He requested district collectors to process pending applications within eight days. Jarange objected to two to four specific certificates and has asked committee members to reconsider these cases.

Some individuals have appealed to the High Court, making it a judicial matter. The government has provided data showing that out of 14,31,634 applicants, 14,24,634 have received Kunbi certificates, while 1,747 applications remain pending, and 5,248 have been rejected. Jarange insists that every individual among the 58 lakh recorded applicants must receive a certificate.

Local organisations plan to organize a rally of one thousand rickshaws from Dharashiv district to support Jarange's agitation.