Backward panel chair lost eyesight while working on Maratha quota report

Ten months of relentless work is what those involved in preparing the Backward Class Commission report to ascertain the Maratha communities' social and economical status had signed up for. Unfortunately, in the process, the commission's chairman, retired justice MG Gaikwad, lost his eyesight.

"We had a lot pressure to complete this mammoth task within a stipulated period of time. We were relieved when our chairman intervened and told the government and concerned persons that the work will take time as we won't submit a half-baked report," said a person who was a part of the commission. Members of the panel worked without leaves for ten months; the government had sanctioned Rs 13 crore for its expenses. He added that Gaikwad underwent an eye operation in Pune.

"The doctor had advised him to take rest and not to read anything. However, his table was full of files and applications. So he barely took rest and resumed duties soon. Although his eyes hurt, he worked for 10 to 15 hours a day and read all papers submitted meticulously. He really inspired us to work hard and diligently," said one of the members of the commission.

When DNA tried to contact Gaikwad, they were told that he is taking rest and is not available for comments at the moment.

Another member said that during Diwali also they did not take any leave. "People were celebrating Diwali with their near and dear ones, but we were busy in preparing the commission report. Every day, we reported to work at 9.00 am, but there was no fixed time for logging out. We really worked hard to make sure the mammoth is tabled on time. Now, it is up to the government to accept our recommendations or reject it," said a member requesting anonymity.