BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar Faces Backlash from Maratha Community Over Alleged Remarks

Jalna, 16th November 2024: BJP MLA and former Maharashtra minister Babanrao Lonikar is facing backlash from the Maratha community following an alleged comment during an election rally that the community’s strength could be “counted on fingers.”

Lonikar remarked at a rally in Partur, Jalna, on November 12, which has drawn sharp criticism from quota activist Manoj Jarange, who accused him of belittling the community’s influence.

The Partur constituency is set for a three-way contest between Lonikar, Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Asaram Borade, and Congress rebel Suresh Jethliya, who is running independently in the upcoming state elections on November 20. Jalna has been at the heart of the Maratha quota movement, with large protests led by Jarange demanding reservations in education and government jobs.

During his rally in Ashti village, Lonikar reportedly claimed that the Maratha community’s strength was minimal. A video of the statement quickly spread on social media, fueling anger among Maratha leaders and activists.

Jarange condemned the remarks, warning that the Marathas would respond decisively at the polls. Local Maratha activists emphasized that the community, which makes up 32% of the constituency’s population, would likely support Borade, a fellow Maratha.

Lonikar is aiming to secure a fourth term for the BJP, while Jethliya, who has a history of running independently and with Congress, is hoping to garner support from Dalit, OBC, and minority voters. After being denied a Congress ticket, he has decided to contest as an independent this year.