Hardik Patel is Back, Writes to Gujarat CM Threatening Fresh Stir

The BJP will face the “wrath” of Patels in 2017 Assembly elections unless the state government does the needful.

File photo of Patel quota agitation leader, Hardik Patel. (Photo: PTI)

Patel quota leader Hardik Patel has threatened to launch another round of agitation to demand reservation under OBC category for the Patel community. He has accused the Gujarat government of “failing” to resolve the main issue.

Patel wrote a letter to Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel from his Surat jail cell on Saturday. He threatened that BJP workers would face the “wrath” of Patels in 2017 Assembly elections if the issue was not sorted out soon. 

Copies of the letter were made public on Sunday by his lawyer.

I welcome your decision to withdraw cases against innocent Patel youths. However, the main issue, for which we have taken the path of agitation, is yet to be resolved by you. There is no word about that issue from the BJP-led state government yet.

<b>Excerpt from Hardik Patel’s letter</b>

The 22-year-old, who is facing sedition charges, asked the CM to expedite the process to release him as well as other jailed quota leaders.

“Patel youths are very angry and ready to start the next round of agitation. And, if that happens, no one can stop us from keeping BJP away from power in 2017,” he wrote.

Patel also invited the chief minister to have a “healthy talk” on the issue once the leaders were released from jail.

I am not against you or the BJP. Patels also wish that power remains with a good leader and party. However, it is time you take a decision in favour of the Patel community. I request you to release jailed leaders and engage in talks with us to arrive at solution.

<b>Excerpt from Hardik Patel’s letter</b>