Ahmedabad: On 7th day of his ‘fast unto death’ Hardik Patel was visited by Kanubhai Kalsariya, a former MLA who has recently joined Congress party. Hardik was also visited by former Gujarat Congress chief Arjun Modhwadia. He was visited by Congress MLA Alpesh Thakor. Tankara MLA Lalai Kagathara and Congress leader and lawyer Babu Mangukiya were also among those who visited Hardik.

In the morning, a Sola Civil hospital doctor Namrata Vadodadia visited Hardik and checked his blood pressure and conducted ECG test. However for mysterious reasons, Hardik didn’t allow her to take samples of blood and urine. Hardik hadn’t allowed her to take these samples even a day before. Hardik’s aide told media persons that there was difference in sugar level in reports given by private doctor and government doctor. Dr. Vadodaria however said, it’s very common to happen. Dr. Vadodaria added that Hardik’s test reports are found near normal, but he should take liquid and also choose to shift to hospital so that he can be put under medical observation.

During day-time pro-Congress and anti-BJP Swaminarayan sadhu SP Swami arrived at Hardik’s residence and offered him a glass of water. SP Swami urged Hardik to start consuming liquid. Hardik was seen crying in response to such appeal. He said he would think over it and take time of a day or so before taking decision.

Hardik’s supporters too appealed him to take water so that he can get strength enough to fight the mighty government. Some of Hardik’s supporters opined that Hardik should continue his fast but with taking water at least.

In related development, city Congress Muslim leaders offered special prayer at Ahmed Shah mazar for Hardik’s well being. Among those who offered prayer were Muslims MLAs from Ahmedabad, Congress leader Badruddin Sheikh and others.

In response to appeal issued by Hardik and his aides and through attempts by Congress MLAs, groups of people could be seen sitting on symbolic fasts at few centres. The response to this call was however not natural and significant.

Hardik is sitting on fast since August 25 over three demands; reservation quota to Patels in jobs and education, release of his aide and Surat convener Alpesh Kathiriya who is in judicial custody under the charge of sedition in connection with year 2015 Patidar quota agitation violence and total waiver of farmers’ debt.

Hardik’s fast agitation is largely being seen as his exercise to rebuilding an agitation and regain lost support ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019 to benefit Congress party.

Meanwhile, Ramdas Athwale, union minister and partner in BJP led NDA government in the centre today favoured reservation quota for Patels. He also offered to become mediator between quota agitators in Gujarat and the government.

DeshGujarat