In just a matter of two months, a young 22 year old B.Com grad named Hardik Patel became the face of Patel community in Gujarat, which has been protesting for an OBC status in state reservations. The heroic rise of Hardik Patel is baffling even the stalwart politicians, for he managed to galvanise lakhs of Patels, 12% of Gujarat’s population, towards raising their stern voice against the state and central governments.
On 25th August, the Hardik Patel led Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti held a huge Kranti Rally in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, which witnessed more than 5 lakh Patels demanding the state’s CM Anandiben Patel personally receive their memorandum which demands that Patels be included in the OBCs to avail reservation quota. Hardik was arrested by police, which led to intense violence like arson and since pelting and even curfew in several towns across the state.
Hardik even threatened the government that he will go on a fast unto death of their demands are not met. “First we follow the path shown by Gandhiji and Sardar Patel but, of required, we can become Bhagat Singh too,” said Hardik in the protest rally. The young leader also warned Modi saying that Lotus (BJP) will not blossom in 2017 elections if reservations are not awarded Patels.
Patels, mostly farmers and businessmen, have been loyal supporters of BJP for decades. However, hardik decided to brave the ruling party after he found that several Patel youths were denied government jobs and college admissions. The OBCs in Gujarat enjoy 27% reservations in education sector and government jobs.
While Hardik’s heroic rise is turning all the attention towards the protests, it has also reminded the dangerous repercussions of reservation system in India.
Recent Random Post:
