Politics over the pro-quota leader Hardik Patel intensified in Gujarat as a delegation of the Opposition Congress met Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Thursday and submitted a memorandum to him requesting to initiate dialogue with the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) convener, who is on fast since past 13 days.
The Congress delegation headed by Leader of Opposition in Gujarat Assembly Paresh Dhanani also said the CM Rupani to accept demands of Hardik, so he would end his fast agitation. Dhanani said that the delegation has asked the CM through memorandum to accept three major demands of Hardik with immediate effect including waiver in farmers’ debt, release of PAAS leader Alpesh Kathiria who is in jail in connection with sedition charge, withdrawal of all cases filed against Patidar activists during pro-quota agitation.
According to him if the State Government would not initiate talk with Hardik, Congress will stage symbolic fast agitation of 24 hours on Friday in all 33 district headquarters across Gujarat from 11 am onwards. He however said that the Chief Minister heard Congress delegation patiently.
Reacting on Congress’s demand, Gujarat BJP president Jitu Vaghani said that the opposition party was playing dirty politics as Congress leaders were not clarifying their party’s view on giving reservation to Patidar community. Over the past three years PAAS and other pro-quota outfits are demanding reservation for Patidar community in Government jobs and educational institutions under OBC category.
Meanwhile, from Thursday evening, Hardik has decided not to take water. His decision came at a time when he started using wheelchair to access toilet. He took the decision following the advice of his personal doctor. Since August 25, Hardik has lost almost 11 kg weight.
According to Government doctor his temperature and blood pressure was normal. The 25-year-old Hardik had complaint of weakness and stomach pain from Thursday .