Feasibility of Congress-Patel tie-up will decide on Nov 7

New Delhi : The much awaited meeting between the Congress and the Patidar firebrand leader Harik Patel ended in a faisco. The Congress has been trying to fish in trouble waters. "Not with or against anyone, need clarity by 7 Nov on issue of reservation to our community," said Hardik Patel in his typical matter-of-fact manner after Patidar leaders met Congress leaders.

Patidar leaders and Gujarat Congress members could not reach an agreement on Monday on the promise of reservation for the community in jobs and education. Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti convener Hardik Patel has said he will support the Congress in the upcoming Assembly election in Gujarat only if the party can assure support for the community’s demand for quotas.

Patidar leaders said they will hold another round of discussions on November 7, which Patel said will be their final talks. “If we have been fighting for reservation in government jobs and educational institutions for two and a half years, then waiting for a few days is no a big deal,” he said.

The Congress, however, did agree to a few demands in Monday’s meeting, such as setting up a Special Investigation Team, if voted to power, to look into alleged atrocities against Patels. It also promised to revoke cases filed against Patidar leaders for their agitation in 2015.