Hardik Patel defies HC, threatens 'lollipop' protest in Gujarat

GANDHINAGAR: Despite his assurances to the Gujarat high court on Thursday that he would restrain himself from any public programme till September 29, Hardik Patel, Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti leader on Friday announced a state-wide lollipop protest against the state government's announcement of Rs1000 crore Mukhyamantri Yuva Swalamban Yojna for economically backward general category students.

Hardik in a statement issued through social media said, “PAAS will stage protests at all talukas and villages by giving lollipops and chocolates to Patidars decrying the government's package.“ Soon after his message lollipop protests started in many parts of Gujarat.

In another video message posted on social media Hardik requested the Patidar community to mark August 25 as Patidar kranti day and August 26th as the Patidar martyrs' day. He also appealed his supporters to organise diya (lamp) rallies on September 26 to mark one month of death of Patidars in police action when violence erupted after the mega rally on August 25.