Activist Manoj Jarange suspends indefinite fast over Maratha quota issue

Maratha activist Manoj Jarange on Wednesday suspended his indefinite fast, which he began five days ago over the quota issue, stating that his community members say they want him alive to fight for the cause.

He announced the decision while addressing media persons at his native Antarwali Sarati village in Jalna district of Maharashtra.

Jarange had launched his latest fast on July 20 in support of his demands, including implementation of the draft notification that recognises Kunbis as 'sage soyare' (blood relatives) of Maratha community members and granting reservation to the latter under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.

The activist, who had been refusing intravenous fluids, agreed to receive them from Tuesday night. Talking to reporters this morning, he said, "My community says they want me alive. There is tremendous pressure from the community. If I die, it would cause a division within the community. Therefore, I have decided to suspend my fast." Jarange criticised