Amid attempts to call a truce between agitating Patidar leaders and the State Government, the 22-year-old jailed Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) convener, Hardik Patel, has gone on indefinite fast from Thursday evening reiterating demand to give reservation to Patidars in Government jobs and educational institution under OBC category.
As per the latest reports the PAAS convener informed the superintendent of lajpore jail through a letter indicating that he would go on fast from Saturday. However, he gave up food and water from Thursday evening. Hardik has been behind bars in lajpore jail under several charges, including that of sedition.
“The jail authority has isolated Hardik and got his medical tests done. So far he is normal. We also informed him that it is illegal to go on the fast in jail but he refused to accept the letter in this regards. We shall take further action basis reports from medical officers,” S l Dusa, jailor at lajpore jail said confirming Hardik’s move, adding that the jail staff is trying to convince him to give up fast.
A letter was submitted to the State Chief Minister Anandiben Patel expressing willingness for a compromise on the issue by fathers of Hardik’s close aides on Wednesday.
The letter that lists names of couple of dozen Patel quota stir leaders is signed by three closest aides of Hardik - Dinesh, Chirag and Ketan. The letter stated that they would abide by any decision reached between the Government and the community panel headed by Jeram Patel.
Though the letter carried name of Hardik Patel, it did not have his signature. After Hardik’s move to go on a fast, the situation could become difficult for the Government as well as Patel leaders who were getting ready to reach an amicable solution on the vexed quota stir by Patels.