(ET)
The Hardik Patel-led Patidar agitation and the impressive support mustered by Other Backward Class (OBC) leader Alpesh Thakor have led the BJP to focus on the backward castes in Gujarat in the run-up to the Assembly polls due this December. It is giving final touches to plans for reaching out to the sizable vote bank from these backward communities with a rally and two Yatras in the state.
BJP chief Amit Shah will address a rally of backward castes on September 18 at Phagwel in Kheda district. Thakors, a backward caste earning its livelihood as peasants and small farmers, are present in big numbers in this region. Alpesh Thakor has carved an impressive following in the community and this is a matter of concern for the BJP. The saffron party has also asked its cadre to ensure the presence of as many backward castes, sub-castes and groups possible for this rally on Monday.
