Congress show of strength in Patel heartland

In yet another clear indication that the Congress is making all efforts to woo the politically-influential Patel community, party vice-president Rahul Gandhi will address a public meeting in Surat's Patel hub of Varachha Road on Friday, the third and final day of his south Gujarat tour.

Patels have been the staunchest supporters of the BJP in the past two decades and one of the key reasons for the party's win in five consecutive assembly elections since 1995. However, a large number of Patels are believed to be unhappy with BJP over denial of reservation benefits to the community, and this is where the Congress sees an opening for itself.

"The Patel issue is hot. We feel that this is the right time to strike. They have not supported us for past several years. However, we are confident that the situation will change in the upcoming elections. This is why Rahulji's public meeting has been organised in Varachha Road, which is also known as Mini Saurashtra," said a Congress leader from Surat.

CONG'S HOPES

The party expects around 50,000 people to turn up for Friday meeting, which will be the Congress leader’s last public engagement on the current tour. 

Patels dominate five out of 12 assembly seats in Surat city. However, the Congress has not won a single seat in Surat city since 2002.