Kshatriya community rallies in Rajkot to demand withdrawal of Union Minister’s candidature

More than 1,50,000 people from the Kshatriya community gathered in Rajkot demanding the withdrawal of Union Minister Parshottam Rupala’s candidature from the Rajkot Lok Sabha seat. Rupala faced backlash after controversial remarks about ‘maharajas’ marrying off daughters to foreign rulers. The community remains unrest despite two apologies from the Minister.
The ‘Kshatriya Maha Semmelan’ in Rajkot saw the largest gathering with previous meetings in Dhandhuka, Patan, and Himmatnagar. This marks a significant escalation in the community’s protest, with a second phase of agitation set to begin on April 19. Some leaders threatened highway blockades if detained, while others suggested confrontational actions if the Minister enters their village for campaigning. Nonetheless, most speeches urged for peace and discipline.
The protests stem from Rupala’s comments on ‘maharajas’ succumbing to foreign rulers and British persecution, causing turmoil within the Kshatriya community. Despite efforts to reconcile with Kshatriya leaders, the demand for Rupala’s withdrawal persists. The upcoming phase of agitation may intensify the pressure on the Union Minister as the community remains firm on their demands.