Hardik seeks clarity on EBC quota from Gujarat CM, Congress

Jailed quota stir leader Hardik Patel today sought “clarity” from Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel on the 10 per cent reservation announced by her government to the economically backward classes (EBC) among upper castes, days after the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) rejected the move terming it as a “lollipop”.

Hardik also asked Leader of Opposition in Gujarat Assembly Shankersinh Vaghela of Congress to clarify the party’s stand on the quota issue.

He penned two letters, dated May 11, one to Patel and the other to Vaghela from Lajpore jail in Surat. The letters were circulated to the media today.

On April 29, the Gujarat government had announced 10 per cent reservation for EBC among upper castes up to an annual family income of Rs six lakh.

Hardik urged Patel to provide all the official documents and government resolutions issued by the BJP government to implement the 10 per cent EBC quota.

According to Hardik, he along with quota body PAAS as well as entire Patel community “is still in darkness about various provisions made by government” in this additional reservation.

He claimed in his letter that he wanted to understand these provisions and convey it to the community, so that they can take a decision about the ongoing agitation.

The 22-year-old leader also asked Patel to handover all the documents related to EBC quota to his close aide Mahesh Savani, who will then deliver these papers to him.

In another letter, which was made public by his Surat-based lawyer Yashwantsinh Vala, Hardik asked Vaghela to clarify Congress’ stand about 10 per cent EBC quota, as his party had demanded that government should double the quota and raise the income limit to Rs 12 lakhs.

Hardik asked Vaghela whether Congress is serious about the demand of 20 per cent EBC quota and increase in income limit.

He also hinted at supporting Congress if the party promises to double the quota when it comes to power.

“Will you give 20 per cent EBC reservation if Congress comes to power in future? What is Congress’ vision for Patels and other unreserved category? It is better you clarify your stand in coming days. I request you to make an announcement soon, so that we can make up our mind about Congress,” he said.