Ahmedabad Turns Fortress Ahead of Mega Rally by Patels

Ahmedabad: Ahead of a mega rally today called by the Patel community of Gujarat who are seeking caste reservation, security has been strengthened across Ahmedabad. Thousands of police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed in the city to prevent any law and order problem.

Despite an appeal by Chief Minister Anandiben Patel, the protesters have refused to call off the rally.

The Patels, who for decades, have been a dominant community in Gujarat - both in terms of trade and politics - are demanding reservation following the slump in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Their idea is now to focus on technical and medical education to ensure jobs for their children.

The Chief Minister, who is from the Patel community, has rejected their demand for caste reservation. But on Monday, she had invited the community leaders to hold talks with the state government.  

"Her appeal means nothing... it is just to create confusion on the agitation... had she been serious, she would have announced something concrete,'' said Hardik Patel, convenor of Patidar Anamat Andolan Sangathan, who has emerged as the face of the agitation.

Around 25 lakh Patels are expected to attend today's rally in Ahmedabad, he said.

But the expected number - the largest so far - is worrying the state government.

The venue, the GMDC ground, which can only accommodate three lakh people, has been turned a fortress, where the paramilitary forces and the local police are keeping vigil.

"We have given permission for the congregation of only 3 lakh. Allowing more would be disastrous,'' said a police officer.

The Patel leaders have also said they would hold a rally around 1.30 pm after addressing the gathering. The police are yet to give clearances for it.

The police have already declared the areas around the venue a "no vehicle area". In view of the security concerns, some schools located in the area have announced a holiday.