Raj Thackeray’s Remarks About Patel Community Spark Outrage in Gujarat

It all began with a fiery speech, but what followed was a political storm that swept through Gujarat, shaking the emotions of an entire community.

Raj Thackeray’s remarks about Patel community spark outrage in Gujarat after his controversial statements against national icons like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and former Prime Minister Morarji Desai. What was perhaps intended to revive his political relevance has instead invited sharp criticism and massive backlash from leaders across party lines in Gujarat.

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief, during a public gathering on July 18, accused some Gujarati businessmen and leaders of once attempting to separate Mumbai from Maharashtra. Among the names he mentioned were Sardar Patel and Morarji Desai — remarks that many in Gujarat found deeply offensive.

“Raj Thackeray is attempting to vilify national heroes just to stir up anti-Gujarati sentiments and breathe life into his politically defunct party,” said Patidar leader Alpesh Kathiria, expressing outrage over Thackeray’s statements.

Kathiria strongly condemned the speech, calling it a direct insult not just to Gujarat’s proud dignitaries but to India as a whole. He labeled Thackeray’s words as an attempt to reignite regional division and urged him to apologize publicly.

“Targeting Sardar Saheb and Morarji Desai is an attempt to reignite regional tension. We won’t tolerate such political stunts at the cost of national unity,” he asserted.

The heat of the controversy was further intensified when Lalji Patel, head of the influential Patidar body SPG, warned Thackeray of severe consequences if he attempted to visit Gujarat.

“You insult the architect of united India, and you expect political acceptance? Come to Gujarat, and we will oppose you with full force,” Patel said in a scathing remark.

Meanwhile, the political firestorm caught the attention of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Gujarat. State AAP president Isudan Gadhvi lashed out at both Raj Thackeray and the BJP-led Maharashtra government. He questioned the BJP’s silence, demanding accountability from the Gujarat leadership.

“When Raj Thackeray insults the pride of Gujarat and India, Sardar Patel, the BJP government watches in silence. Why this selective outrage?” Gadhvi asked.

He went on to demand action from Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel and BJP state president C.R. Patil, stating that if needed, Thackeray should be arrested and imprisoned in Sabarmati Jail.

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The row continues to stir political waters, leaving citizens and leaders wondering whether the BJP leadership will step in or continue its silence. The sentiments surrounding Sardar Patel, revered as the Iron Man of India, and Morarji Desai, India’s only Gujarati-origin PM, run deep in Gujarat’s political and cultural consciousness. Any perceived insult is bound to provoke intense responses.

As the storm brews, one thing is clear — Gujarat will not sit quietly if its icons are disrespected.

📎 Source Link: Read original coverage on New Indian Express