Is the Patidar Community Mobilizing After Italia's Victory?

Ahmedabad, June 26 (NationPress) Following the remarkable victory of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Gopal Italia in the Visavadar by-election, where he triumphed over his opponents with a staggering margin of 17,581 votes, Gujarat's political scene has been invigorated, particularly among the Patidar community, who are preparing for a major display of solidarity.

A grand Patidar meeting is scheduled for June 28 in Gandhinagar, marking a potential revival of community-based activism within the state. Reports indicate that this gathering will be one of the largest assemblies of Patidar leaders in recent history, with all conveners from the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) anticipated to be in attendance.

Prominent figures expected to join include former PAAS leaders and activists such as Alpesh Kathiria, Dharmik Malviya, and Varun Patel, showcasing a renewed commitment to tackling community issues and asserting political presence.

To amplify the momentum, Varun Patel announced the meeting on social media platform X, stating, "A think tank has been organised in Gandhinagar on Saturday, June 28, for key agitators and influential social leaders linked with the Patidar movement to discuss urgent matters concerning the Patidar community across Gujarat."

Italia's victory has not only enhanced AAP's confidence but also rekindled the political aspirations of Patidar leadership, suggesting a potential realignment as the 2027 Assembly elections approach.

The Patidar (or Patel) community stands as one of the most powerful socio-political factions in Gujarat, both in terms of population and political leverage.

Representing roughly 12–14 percent of the state’s population, Patidars have traditionally been land-owning farmers and have historically held economic power, particularly in regions like Saurashtra, North Gujarat, and parts of Central Gujarat. Over the years, the community has also established a strong foothold in business, education, and cooperative sectors.

Politically, Patidars have been instrumental in influencing electoral outcomes in Gujarat. Since the BJP's rise in the 1990s, the community has predominantly supported the party, becoming a crucial vote bank.

Leaders such as Keshubhai Patel and later Prime Minister Narendra Modi capitalized on this allegiance. However, this loyalty was challenged in 2015 during the Patidar reservation agitation, spearheaded by the PAAS and figures like Hardik Patel. The movement sought OBC status for the community, citing educational and economic challenges faced by its youth.

The agitation resulted in widespread protests, confrontations, and a reconsideration of the Patidar-BJP relationship. Although the BJP has since endeavored to restore trust by offering 10 percent EWS reservation and incorporating Patidar leaders into key roles, the community’s political alignment is no longer uniform.

Parties like Congress and AAP have made strides by appealing to the discontent among younger Patidars, particularly those affected by unemployment or feeling excluded from the state’s growth narrative.