Hardik Patel's arrest was followed by large-scale arson and violence by his supporters
After nine months in prison, on charges that include sedition, 22-year-old Hardik Patel is likely to leave jail today after being granted bail in all the cases against him. However, Mr Patel has guaranteed the Gujarat High Court that in return for his freedom, he will remain outside his home state for the next six months.
Sources close to Mr Patel say he is likely to spend his time between Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh ahead of the state's crucial election next year. He will focus on mobilising support among the Kurmis, a community like his own, the powerful and traditionally prosperous Patels or Patidars.
Mr Patel was arrested in October as he led a huge and violent revolt of the Patidars against the ruling BJP.
Mr Patel, who dramatically wielded a sword at public meetings, said the Patidars must be entitled to reserved government jobs and seats in colleges. Though the Patidars have traditionally been rich, the community prospered from diamond trading and farming, sectors whose returns have greatly diminished in recent years.
Mr Patel's arrest was followed by large-scale arson and violence by his supporters in some of Gujarat's biggest towns.
He was given bail in two cases of sedition on Friday; on Monday, he won bail in a third case that charges him with damaging a state legislator's office during his agitation.