Patidar community protest over Sadhvi Ranjana controversy:Calls for action against ‘Jihadi’ slur; hints at religious conversion

The car controversy related to Sadhvi Ranjana Didi took a collective turn on Tuesday in Misrod. A large number of people gathered at the Patidar Samaj’s Manglik Bhawan in Misrod under the banner of Patidar Samaj, OBC Morcha, and Sakal Hindu Samaj. A large number of women also participated in the program. During the protest, “Jai Shree Ram” slogans were raised, and later a memorandum was submitted to the ACP. Community representatives alleged that their social brothers were insulted by being called “Jihadi” and “anarchist elements,” and false cases were registered against them at Misrod police station. After the protest, a memorandum addressed to the Collector and Commissioner was handed over to police officials. The memorandum demanded that the registered cases be terminated, an FIR should be registered from their side as well, and strict action should be taken against the culprits. These objectionable words Patidar organization member Ajay Patidar said that if the community is called “Jihadi” or “anarchist” like this, it is highly objectionable. He said that if they are not considered part of Hindu society, then the community will be forced to collectively consider religious conversion. After his statement, the atmosphere at the event venue became more tense for some time. Allegation of one-sided action The society alleged that the police took one-sided action under pressure. They say that on February 26, there was a road dispute involving Sadhvi Ranjana Didi’s vehicle on the main road, which was turned into serious charges despite being a normal incident. The society claims that cameras installed at the scene can clarify the truth of the entire sequence of events. What happened before? On February 25, there was a dispute over car overtaking in the Misrod police station area. Sadhvi Ranjana has filed an FIR alleging assault, vandalism, harassment, and attempted murder. A video of the incident has also emerged, which is under investigation. After the incident, workers from Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal also protested outside the police station and demanded strict action. While the police investigation continues on one side, the Patidar community has made it clear that if their demands are not met, the protest will be expanded statewide. For the administration, this matter has become sensitive from both law and order and social balance perspectives.