Patidar leader from Gujarat Hardik Patel on Sunday addressed a farmers' mahapanchayat at Sawai Madhopur district in Rajasthan. Hardik came down heavily on the ruling BJP government in the state over farmers' and employment issues. He urged the people to decide which party they want to vote as per their wish. But the young Patidar leader once again gave rise to speculations about whether he is batting for the Congress when he accepted that while he was opposed to the BJP, he did have a soft corner for Congress.

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Hardik, while speaking to DNA, said, "I will not tell people who to vote for, but I will tell them to be aware of their rights and vote for the person who can safeguard their interests. BJP government came to power in Rajasthan in 2013, but it has not yet fulfilled its promises to farmers or provided employment to 2 crore youth. I am urging the people to become aware of this."

Hardik had been the cause of concern for the BJP in Gujarat assembly elections where he had adopted similar strategy and campaigned against the BJP, thus by default moving people to vote for the Congress.       

He, however, said that the Congress had not sought his support. "I am against the BJP as they have not delivered what they promised, but I'm not supporting the Congress; but yes, I do have a soft corner for the Congress,"

Hardik is scheduled address a meet in Kota on November 18 after which he would extensively tour the Mewar area (Udaipur region).

These are pockets that have population of Gurjars and Patidars who are the deciding population on around 45 assembly seats. A Congress, Hardik, Gurjar combine is cause of concern for ruling BJP.

HARDIK'S RAJASTHAN CONNECT

  • Hardik Patel the Patidar leader heading reservation movement in Gujarat has close ties with Gurjar leaders of Rajasthan who are also demanding reservation for last several years.  
  • Hardik had lived in Udaipur during the period when restraining order of Gujarat High Court prevented him from being in the state.