JOIN USPatel quota stir leader Hardik Patel on Monday once again asked his supporters to vote out the BJP in Gujarat.
"I am not here to say who to vote for, but all I have to say is that if you vote for BJP, you would be a traitor of your community. For once, teach them a lesson. If you want, vote them back in 2022," Hardik told his supporters who had gathered in large numbers at New Nikol area of Ahmedabad. "Unless you give someone a chance, how will you know whether they are better or not?" he said.
Hardik hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his reference to Pakistan's collusion in Gujarat elections. "What has Pakistan got to do with Gujarat elections? But in last 22 years, those who talked of development have gone back to their old theme - Ram Mandir, Hindu-Muslim, Pakistan. Do they talk of development?"
Hardik said that he did not seek to grab power by defeating the BJP but wanted three things - "reservations for youth in unreserved classes, bring down unemployment and right price for farmers. If they announce this now, I shall end the agitation right here and turn it in to a 'Thank You' rally."
Traffic snarls were witnessed in different parts of the city on Monday during Hardik's road show. There were reports of minor scuffles and stone-throwing, when BJP and PAAS workers clashed at Bapunagar election office of BJP candidate. The situation was brought under control after police intervention.
Hardik held his road show even as Ahmedabad Police Commissioner refused permission for road shows by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president designate Rahul Gandhi in the city on Tuesday, on the grounds of security and traffic congestion.
Hardik's road show was given permission with an understanding that it would not have more than five vehicles. However, thousands joined him on their personal vehicles.