Patidar youths burn effigy of Hardik Patel in Ahmedabad

They were expressing dissent over the latter's frequent change in plan of action for the Patidar reservation agitation

In a protest against his way of functioning during the agitation, a group of Patidar youths on Thursday burnt effigy of Hardik Patel in Ghatlodiya area of Ahmedabad. However, the other agitating faction Sardar Patel Group (SPG) has denied any involvement in the act even as it maintained that Patidar youths were unhappy with Hardik Patel's actions under Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS).

A group of nearly 40-50 young people had burnt PAAS leader Hardik Patel expressing dissent over the latter's frequent change in plan of action for the Patidar reservation agitation. Hardik Patel was not reachable despite several attempts. Apparently, Patel, who had called a meeting in Ahmedabad later changed the venue after the police restricted them from meeting in the area.

"We have nothing to do with the burning of Hardik Patel's effigy. This was done by unknown youths of Patidar community who believe that Hardik has misguided us and his action for Patidar agitation is not proper," SPG leaders said.

Meanwhile, SPG had also organised a group meeting in the city to line up its strategy for the agitation. The group has also printed 100,000 tickets for sales to collect funds for Patidar families where at least one member died during the violence that ensued after the massive August 25 rally in Ahmedabad.

"In the coming days, we will organise group meeting at taluka and district level for Patidar agitation. We will also arrange a homage march across Gujarat on September 6 as tribute to victims," SPG leaders said.