Overview

• The Bombay High Court asked how the September 2 order using Hyderabad Gazette records to help Marathas claim Kunbi status would affect the 10% Maratha reservation under the SEBC Act, 2024, and whether both can operate together.
• The state told the bench the move applies only to Marathwada residents who can prove Kunbi lineage and would not alter the SEBC quota, with SEBC challenges listed to continue on October 4 and separate PILs against the GR pending.
• Multiple PILs filed this week contend the GR bypasses the 2000 caste-certificate law, violates Article 14, and wrongly equates Marathas with Kunbis, calling the decision arbitrary and ultra vires.
• OBC leader and minister Chhagan Bhujbal said the order was issued under pressure and pledged legal action and street mobilisation, as OBC groups prepare large protests in Mumbai in early October.
• A 35-year-old OBC man in Latur allegedly died by suicide with a note blaming the GR, prompting a police probe and visits by leaders, while Banjara groups launched protests seeking ST status citing the 1920 Hyderabad Gazette with support from NCP MLA Dhananjay Munde.