In a last ditch attempt to solve the Patidar agitation in Gujarat ahead of assembly elections, the BJP state government on Thursday declared that it would hold talks with Patidar leaders on September 26.
[File] Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani | PTI
For more than two years now, Patidars have been demanding reservation under the OBC category. More than 10 Patidars had lost their lives two years ago in violence that broke out after a massive show of strength.
The government has time and again clarified that it will not be possible to give Patidars reservation under the OBC category as the Supreme Court has laid a guideline that reservation cannot exceed 49 per cent.
Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said in Gandhingar on Wednesday that Patidar leaders had demanded that a solution be brought about. He said that Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and state BJP president Jitubhai Vaghani will also be present in the meeting.
More than 100 Patidars associated with religious and social organisations are expected to take part.
While there is a list of organisations from which representatives will be invited, there is no mention of Hardik Patel, convener of Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS), which is spearheading the agitation. Sources, however, said that invitation would also be extended to PAAS and Sardar Patel Group.
Hardik could not be reached for his comments.
In several interior villages of the state, there have been hoardings that say Section 144 has been imposed in the area to stop the entry of the BJP.
Hardik's three-day rally in various parts of the state, especially in Saurashtra region, had been a hit.
On the other hand, state BJP youth wing president Dr Rutvij Patel has faced opposition during his tours to different parts of the state.
The ruling BJP cannot afford to see the Patidars displeased before the elections as the community has been traditionally voting for the party.
One and a half years ago, the BJP had faced reverses in civic elections due to the Patidar stir.
