Hardik Patel's `abduction': HC seeks affidavit to back up charges

AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat High Court today for the fifth and the last time directed the two aides of Patel quota agitation leader Hardik Patel to file an affidavit substantiating the charges made in their habeas corpus petition regarding his alleged abduction.

The division bench of Justices M R Shah and K J Thaker directed the lawyers of petitioners Dinesh Patel and Ketan Patel, members of Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS), to file the affidavit before November 4.

"The matter was adjourned from time to time. Petitioners may file affidavit through B M Mangukia or other advocate as a last chance before November 4," the court said.

On September 24, 29 and on October 8 and 21, the the High Court had directed them to file an affidavit.

The habeas corpus petition was filed when Hardik went missing after a public meeting in Tenpur village of Aravali village on September 22.

He surfaced on September 23, and claimed he was abducted by "a person looking like cops" who warned him to give up the agitation.

However, the High Court had expressed scepticism about the claim.