Manoj Patil has been a familiar face in the realm of protest and activism, having embarked on numerous fasting demonstrations over the years to advocate for quotas for the Maratha community, both in employment opportunities and educational institutions. Currently residing in Ankush Nagar, which is situated 10 kilometers from Antarvali, he has even gone to the extent of selling two acres of his own land to raise funds for his ongoing protest.
Traveling to Antarvali has been made more accessible thanks to the recently inaugurated Dhule-Solapur highway, and as you approach the Marathwada region, you can palpably sense the fervor surrounding Manoj Patil's movement. People of all ages within the community have rallied behind him, united by a common cause that has taken the form of a powerful protest demanding reservations.
Rahul Patil, hailing from the nearby Badnapur, sheds light on the significance of Manoj Patil's unwavering commitment to the cause: "Earlier, we've witnessed numerous protests, but they were often quelled by the government. Patil, however, has been persistently fasting for the betterment of our community, demonstrating remarkable transparency in his approach. When the government fails to respond to a peaceful protest and we witness Patil's health deteriorating, it stirs deep emotions within us. The incidents involving the burning of tires, bungalows, and the blockade of roads stem from this frustration."
Despite Manoj Patil having maintained his fast for a whole week, there has been no clear and definitive resolution in sight. The government is anticipated to grant reservations to the Marathas in the Marathwada region by issuing them Kunbi certificates by the upcoming Monday. However, Patil is resolute in asserting that the protest will not cease until every Maratha in the state secures reservation benefits.
The concern for Manoj Patil's health transcends the borders of Antarvali, drawing individuals like Rekha Patil, a health worker from Nanded, to the village with her two daughters in tow. She articulates her concerns, emphasizing Patil's role as a leader who genuinely cares about the welfare of their community. She voices the collective plea for the government to heed his demands and highlights the pivotal role he plays in their community.
This emotional tension is palpable, as evidenced by Rekha's daughter shedding tears while holding a water bottle. In response to public demand, Patil relents and takes a sip of water, marking a poignant moment in the ongoing struggle.
Notably, alongside the visitors, there are dedicated volunteers who have traveled to Antarvali to meet Patil and have remained steadfast in their support of the cause. One volunteer explains, "I am not from here, but I have chosen to stay here and support the cause as a volunteer. My role involves managing the crowd and providing sustenance to the visitors."
Behind every protest, there's a dedicated team that plays a pivotal role in sustaining it. In this case, the Sarpanch of Antarvali village, Pandurang Tarakh, and Patil's close friend, Dr. Ramesh Tarakh, are prominent figures seen as closely associated with Patil's efforts. Dr. Ramesh diligently monitors Patil's health, as the activist has declined check-ups by government doctors. Pandurang serves as the intermediary for government officials seeking to communicate with Patil, and he also manages the microphone during press conferences, as Patil's physical strength has waned over the course of the protest. This support network plays a crucial role in keeping the protest alive and focused on its goals.
