Quota stir a clear indication of failure of Gujarat model: CPI-M

NEW DELHI: Seeking "immediate" restoration of peace in Gujarat, which witnessed violence over the Patel community's demand for reservation, CPI(M) today launched a veiled attack on BJP saying the widespread agitation for quota indicated failure of its "so-called" development model.

Condemning the violence, which has claimed nine lives so far, CPI(M) also questioned the way police handled the situation after the August 25 rally called by the community. The state police handled the situation "in a way" that triggered aggression, it said.

"The CPI(M) calls for immediate restoration of peace and normalcy. Patidars' widespread agitation is a clear indication of failure of the so-called Gujarat model of development. It has led to lack of employment opportunities, agrarian crisis and low social development indicators," CPI(M) said in a statement.

Unless there is a balanced development with equity, large sections of people will remain outside the ambit of social and economic development, the party added.

It insisted that the demand for reservation should not be used to pitch one community against another. Those entitled to reservation "should not be targeted for failure of the government to render jobs and equitable development", it said.

Tension prevailed in Gujarat as the death toll in clashes which started on Tuesday during quota agitation by the Patel community climbed to nine and the Army was deployed in more cities to rein in the violence.

Curfew remained in force in Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot, Mehasana, Palanpur, Unjha, Visnagar and Jamnagar towns.