Massive Rally in Rajkot Demands Withdrawal of BJP Candidate

This marked the second rally organized by the Kshatriya community in Rajkot, where they expressed their vehement opposition to Mr. Rupala. 

His recent remarks regarding the historical ties of former princely families with the British and suggestions of marital relations have deeply offended the descendants of these families in Gujarat.

Intensifying Protests in Rajkot:

Community leaders declared their intention to escalate the protests, announcing plans for another large-scale rally in Ahmedabad after April 19 if Mr. Rupala’s nomination remained unchanged.

Ramjubha Jadeja, a core committee member of the Kshatriya community, reiterated the community’s firm demand for Mr. Rupala’s withdrawal, emphasizing its resolute position on this issue.

Comparison with Past Actions by Mr. Rupala:

Drawing a parallel with past actions taken by the BJP leadership, Mr. Jadeja highlighted instances where the party had taken action against individuals who made mistakes, citing the example of former party spokesperson Nupur Sharma.

Another community leader, Karansinh Chavda, left the decision to the BJP, stating that it was their choice between Mr. Rupala and the support of the Rajputs. 

He emphasized that the community’s decision was clear: they would not back the BJP if Mr. Rupala remained the candidate, extending this stance across all constituencies, not just Rajkot.

Persistent Protests before Rajkot:

Since March 22, nearly 75 different groups or clans of the Rajput community have been actively protesting against Mr. Rupala’s remarks.

Efforts at resolution, including two meetings between a coordination committee of top community leaders and BJP Rajput leaders, have failed to reach a compromise. 

The Rajputs remain unwavering in their demand for Mr. Rupala’s removal, while the BJP maintains that the Union Minister has already apologized twice.

Continuing Resistance:

Despite the ruling party’s announcement that Mr. Rupala will file his nomination papers on April 16 and hold a roadshow in Rajkot city, resistance persists. 

Triptiba Vala, a prominent woman leader involved in the protests, condemned Mr. Rupala’s derogatory comments about Rajput women, declaring them unacceptable.

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