In the complex world of politics, often referred to as the art of what is possible, Jarange-Patil’s recent hunger strike until death serves as a cautionary tale. His decision to engage in this extreme form of protest without a clear understanding of political pragmatism resulted in its sudden termination on the 16th day. To counteract this setback, Patil has now embarked on a statewide tour to gather support for Maratha reservation in Maharashtra. Despite the withdrawal of his agitation, it has not been entirely in vain. From being a relatively unknown figure in a district, he has risen to the position of a state-level leader capable of mobilizing tens of thousands against the government. The pressure exerted has compelled the government to pass a new law, granting Marathas a 10% reservation. However, Patil, more than anyone else, recognizes that this legal victory is only a temporary relief. The stringent actions taken by the police against those who took matters into their own hands may have also put pressure on Patil. The imminent challenge is the expected legal battle in the Supreme Court, an institution that has previously viewed such laws with skepticism. Understanding the court’s reluctance to allow a reservation to exceed 50% in any state, Patil anticipates a return to square one, which could breed despair within his camp. After all, it was the apex court that imposed the cap on reservations following the implementation of the Mandal Commission report. Aware of the government’s tactics, Patil is not immune to internal divisions within the leadership of the movement. A troubling statement from one of his supposed right-hand men, questioning Patil’s sincerity, highlights the government’s strategy to undermine the movement from within. Patil’s credibility suffered when he accused the government of attempting to assassinate him, a claim that, instead of garnering sympathy, subjected him to ridicule. Now, the crucial question is, what comes next? The broader context reveals a shifting landscape regarding the importance of reservation.