Draft:Manoj Akhare

Manoj Akhare is an Indian politician known for his role as the president of the Sambhaji Brigade, a regional political party advocating for Maratha interests. Operating within Maharashtra’s political landscape, Akhare has emerged as a notable figure. Under his leadership, the Sambhaji Brigade has gained prominence as a voice for the Maratha community, addressing issues such as discrimination, economic marginalization, and historical injustices. Notably, his alliance with the Uddhav Thackeray faction of the Shiv Sena in 2022 further solidified his position in Maharashtra’s political sphere.

Early Life
Akhare was born in Maharashtra in 1971 into a family with a strong tradition of social activism. His father, Shyamrao Akhare, was a founding member of the Sambhaji Brigade, named after the son of the Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Growing up in this environment, Akhare developed a deep commitment to Maratha rights and cultural preservation. He graduated from the Shri Shivaji Institute of Pharmacy in Parbhani and subsequently ascended through the ranks of the organization, known for its assertive advocacy for Maratha reservation.

Political Career
Joining the Sambhaji Brigade in his early twenties, Akhare’s leadership qualities quickly became evident as he ascended through the ranks, participating in some of the Brigade’s pivotal moments.

Vandalization of Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute 

Akhare joined the Brigade’s opposition against the publication of James Laine’s controversial book on Shivaji Maharaj, citing historical inaccuracies and perceived biases. The 2004 attack on the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute (BORI) in Pune, in response to Laine’s book, marred the Brigade’s reputation and raised concerns about its tactics.

Protest against Dadoji Kondev Statue

In 2010, Akhare participated in a protest to remove the statue of Dadoji Kondadev at Lal Mahal, emphasizing the Brigade’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage. The protest aimed to challenge the perceived exaggeration of Kondadev’s historical significance by Brahmin historians. The Brigade claims that Kondadev's historical significance as Chhatrapati Shivaji's mentor has been overstated by Brahmin historians. About 30 to 40 people entered Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and attacked Mayor's office.

2013 Shiv Shahu Yatra for Maratha Reservation

Akhare participated in the 2013 ‘Shiv Shahu Yatra’ rally led by led by Sambhaji Chhatrapati of Kolhapur, This symbolic march aimed to raise public awareness and demand reservation for the Maratha community.

Ram Ganesh Gadkari Incident

Despite his advocacy for peaceful methods, Akhare faced accusations of instigating violence during a protest against a book by Brahmin historian Ram Ganesh Gadkari in 2017. This incident sparked debates about free speech and the limits of protest, highlighting Akhare’s commitment to peaceful dialogue.

Political Foray

Internal dissension within the Sambhaji Brigade led to a split, with Pravin Gaikwad forming a breakaway faction. However, Akhare navigated the crisis adeptly, solidifying his leadership position. Recognizing the limitations of street agitations, he led the Brigade’s transformation into a political party in 2016, aiming to amplify Maratha voices within the political system.

2020 Manoj Akhare Demands OBC Reservation for Marathas

In December 2020, Akhare demanded OBC reservation for Marathas, arguing that the SEBC reservation exceeded the Supreme Court’s 50% cap. He urged the government to include Marathas in the OBC category, citing recommendations from Maharashtra’s backward class commission.

Alliance with Shiv Sena

In 2022, Akhare’s Sambhaji Brigade formed an alliance with the Uddhav Thackeray faction of the Shiv Sena, aiming to counter political polarization and uphold regional pride within Maharashtra. The alliance, rooted in shared Maratha heritage represented a strategic shift.