Patidar community plans mass withdrawals from banks

GANDHINAGAR: The Patidar community has threatened to deliver a strong blow to the state’s economy by causing minor runs on several banks through mass withdrawal of deposits. While the community is gearing up to field independent candidates in the forthcoming civic polls on one hand, they are also mulling over simultaneous withdrawal of Rs 50,000 or more from bank accounts held by members of the community.

“There are about 1.40 crore Patidars in the state with approximately 70 lakh bank account. So you can imagine the impact of simultaneous withdrawal of Rs 50,000 or more. We would hit them both at financial and political front. We are also discussing the possibility of fielding independent Patidar candidates in the next civic elections. If we are pushed the way we are being pushed, such steps are within the realm of possibility,” said Sardar Patel Group spokesperson Varun Patel.

ET had on September 1 reported the possibility of Patidars contesting elections or abstain from voting to hurt the prospects of the BJP.