Kshatriya community demands cancellation of Parshottam Rupala’s candidature in Gujarat, gives ultimatum to BJP

In a display of unity, members of the Kshatriya community rallied near Rajkot, demanding the removal of Parshottam Rupala, the Union minister and BJP Lok Sabha candidate for the 2024 polls from Gujarat. The community, gathered in large numbers, expressed their discontent at a ground in front of a Ram temple at Ratanpar near Rajkot.

During the “Kshatriya Asmita Mahasammelan,” Karansinh Chavda, the leader of the coordination committee of Kshatriya organisations in Gujarat, issued an ultimatum to the BJP, demanding Rupala’s unconditional removal by April 19. The community warned that if their demand is not met, their frustration will extend beyond Rupala and impact the BJP nationally.

Rupala, facing backlash for disparaging comments made about the community during an election campaign, has become the focal point of the Kshatriya community’s discontent. Despite offering a public apology, various Kshatriya groups continue to push for his removal as the BJP’s candidate in Gujarat.

The Congress party has announced Paresh Dhanani as their candidate to contest against Rupala from the Rajkot seat. The BJP has made efforts to pacify the community but remains firm on retaining Rupala as the candidate. The Kshatriya community’s threat to boycott the Lok Sabha polls on May 7 unless their demands are met signifies the significant impact their unified stance could have on the upcoming elections.