PAAS seeks Shiv Sena support

The members of Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) have sought support from Shiv Sena to take their agitation forward, the Shiv Sena said on Tuesday. A meeting was held between Surat PAAS members and Shiv Sena leaders in Kapodara area to discuss the new alliance, given the state clampdown on the PAAS members following the arrest of its leader Hardik Patel on sedition charges.

Surat PAAS co-conveners met Shiv Sena Surat city president Raju Deshle and Surat district president Arun Kalal in Kapodara where both groups decided to support each other. Surat Shiv Sena president Raju Deshle said, “We have had a meeting with Surat PAAS leaders and they are keen to take our help. About the upcoming municipal elections, we have told them that Shiv Sena was ready to give tickets to Patidars in Patidar-dominated areas in Surat city. Gujarat Shiv Sena president Rupal Patel has also had a meeting with Patidar leaders in Gandhinagar Monday. We have assured them that Shiv Sena will come out clearly in support of Patidars in their ongoing stir.”