Gujjar Mahapanchayat held in Rajasthan

Jhalawar, Aug 26 (UNI) A Gujjar 'Mahapanchayat' was held here today to pressure the Rajasthan government on the demand of inclusion of the Gujjar community into the Scheduled Tribe category.

A large number of Gujjars from different parts of the state and neighbouring states participated in the congregation to express their solidarity.

The administration had made elaborated security arrangements for the smooth movement of participants and maintaining law and order in the district.

The campaign in favour of demand of ST status for the Gujjar community gained momentum three months ago when Gujjar Reservation Action Committee, led by Col Kirodi Singh Bainsla, spearheaded its agitation since May 29.

The week-long agitation had turned violent and witnessed widespread incidents of arson and police firing leaving 25 people dead and several others injured.

The agitation culminated into an agreement with the state government, which had constituted a three-judge committee to examine the viability of the community's demand.

Since that agitation, different groups and outfits have become active and have so far organised gatherings at different places, including Pushkar and Bhilwara.

UNI