Gujjar Mahapanchayat in Jhalra Patan marred with ugly scenes at dias

Jhalawar, Aug 26 (UNI) A Gujjar 'Mahapanchayat' held today in Jhalra Patan, the assembly constituency held by Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, was marred by ugly scenes of roughing by leaders sitting at the podium to address the gathering.

The podium was shared by leaders of various groups, including Gujjar Reservation Action Committee Convenor Col Kirodi Singh Bainsla and expelled BJP legislator Prahlad Gunjal.

The roughing and mishandling took place between leaders of Bainsla and Gunjal groups over dispute over priority to leaders to speak.

The congregation was held 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 several other 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 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