Maratha quota activist Jarange’s health worsens on day 9 of fast; supporters anxious

Officials said Jarange, who is under continuous medical monitoring, declined treatment despite doctors visiting every two hours to assess his condition.

CHHATRAPATI SAMBHAJINAGAR: Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange’s health deteriorated on the ninth day of his indefinite hunger strike at Antarwali Sarati on Sunday after he again refused medical treatment and stopped water intake.

This has triggered anxiety among supporters and raised the possibility of shutdowns and road blockades in parts of Marathwada.A govt medical team made two attempts to examine Jarange between midnight and Sunday morning, but returned without providing treatment after he refused health checks and intravenous fluids. Officials said Jarange, who is under continuous medical monitoring, declined treatment despite doctors visiting every two hours to assess his condition.The fast, which began on Aug 29, entered a critical phase after Jarange stopped taking water and IV fluids on Friday night. He had briefly resumed intake of water and fluids on Sept 2 following discussions with govt representatives.Addressing reporters, Jarange accused state govt of delaying a resolution to the Maratha reservation issue. “Govt offered Kunbi certificates but at the same time ensured they get cancelled too,” he said.

The activist has set a Sept 11 deadline for govt to act on his demands, including the issuance of Kunbi certificates to eligible Marathas and a smoother process for granting validity certificates.As reports of his declining health spread, concern mounted among protesters gathered at the village.