Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has initiated the process to implement the Hyderabad gazette, paving the way for issuing Kunbi caste certificates to eligible Maratha community members. State Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil assured that OBC rights would remain protected, despite opposition from some OBC leaders.

A committee under the Social Justice Department has been formed to verify historical records and issue Kunbi certificates, a key demand of quota activist Manoj Jarange. The move has triggered resistance from leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal, who fear dilution of OBC reservations.

Vikhe Patil said he would meet Bhujbal to clarify concerns and also consult with the OBC sub-committee led by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.