BJP stalwarts expected on final day of Modi's fast

As Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi's 72-hour fast entered the third and final day today, top BJP leaders are expected to make an appearance at the venue and lend their support to his 'Sadbhavana Mission'.

Among the most prominent BJP leaders, who are expected to arrive at the Gujarat University Convention Centre here, include Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj, former BJP president Venkaiah Naidu, party MP and actor Hema Malini, national spokesperson Nirmala Sitaraman and Maharashtra Navnirman Seva (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray.

Modi is likely to end his fast at around 5.30 pm today.

At 10.30 am, Modi and people at the venue observed a minute of silence for the victims of the earthquake that hit Sikkim and several areas in the eastern and northern parts of the country yesterday.

State transport buses from across Gujarat are bringing people from all walks of life at the fast site and they were seen carrying banners with slogans supporting Modi's fast.

After yesterday's incident of baton-charging by police on the crowd that had come to visit the CM, Gujarat Revenue Minister and close aide of Modi, Anandi Patel has taken on the task of supervising the security arrangements at the entrance gate.

Patel was seen at the main entrance, instructing police officers and discussing security arrangements with them.

"Today being the concluding day of Modi's three-day long fast, a huge crowd is expected, besides VIP dignitaries from across the country," a BJP member said.

Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) health department staff were also seen sprinkling gamaczine powder at the venue and outside it.