Congress Leaders Confronted by Maratha Protesters in Nashik

Nashik witnessed a heated confrontation between Maratha protesters and key Congress leaders, including state president Nana Patole and Leader of Opposition Vijay Wadettiwar, as demonstrators sought clarity on the party's position regarding reservations for the Maratha community. The protesters expressed their frustration over the perceived lack of action and demanded a definitive commitment from the leaders to support their cause. During the encounter, Patole attempted to engage with the protesters, assuring them that the Congress party is actively working to secure reservations for the Maratha community. However, the incident also underscored underlying tensions within the Congress party itself, particularly regarding factionalism. This was brought to light by the absence of MLA Hiraman Khoskar's photo at the event, raising questions about his standing within the party amid allegations of cross-voting during the Legislative Council elections. As the situation escalated, protesters directed their dissatisfaction towards Wadettiwar, calling for a more effective opposition leader who could adequately represent their interests. The demand for competent leadership reflects the community's urgency in addressing their grievances and securing their rights. Despite the internal strife and external pressures, Patole reaffirmed the Congress party's dedication to the Maratha cause, promising to persist in their efforts to achieve the desired reservation. The confrontation highlights the ongoing struggle for Maratha rights and the challenges faced by political leaders in navigating community expectations.