OBC Status: BJP cites SC ruling

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There has been nearly 10 rallies by now, including two huge in Visnagar and Vijapur. Though the permission was withdrawn by the administration, the PAS took out the rally in Vijapur on Tuesday. It is for the first time that the BJP, which enjoys the loyalty of the influential Patidar community, has cleared its stand over the issue that has rocked the Patel government.

On the other hand, PAS maintained that the representation has always been done with the government. “After every rally since July 16, we have submitted memorandum to mamlatdar or collector. It is the right platform,” said Hardik Patel of PAS.

As the PAS has announced to intensify the agitation by holding rallies across Gujarat, the BJP, which has significant number of leaders from this community, decided to address it by taking recourse to legal issues. Along with Chief Minister Anandiben Patel, who is a Patel leader from Mehsana, Faldu and BJP national vice-president Purshottam Rupala are also Patels. Apart from Anandiben, there are six other Patel ministers in her government.

“The Supreme Court’s guideline is very clear that there shouldn’t be more than 50 per cent reservation. Gujarat has reached that mark. Others state’s attempt to cross 50 per cent mark has been turned by the SC in the past,” said Faldu. He added: “There may be political attempt to disturb peace, but the BJP leaders and workers should try to make people understand the fact.” The meeting was attended by all MLAs, MPs and ministers. The Patel Government had also cancelled the weekly cabinet meeting that was coinciding with the state party meeting.

However, Chief Minister Anandiben Patel left the venue early to reach the flood-affected Mehsana and Patan districts, along with health minister Nitin Patel.