Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday emphasized Sardar Patels monumental role in uniting India and shaping the nation after independence. He highlighted Patels leadership during the integration of 562 princely states, the Hyderabad and Junagadh operations, and securing Lakshadweep on 15 August 1947. Shah, in a press briefing in Patna, Bihar, noted that the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, conceptualized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, honors Patels legacy. Constructed in 57 months using 25,000 tonnes of iron from farmers tools, 1,700 tonnes of bronze, and 90,000 cubic meters of concrete, the 182-meter statue attracts over 15,000 daily visitors. Additional tourist attractions around the site further enhance its appeal. To commemorate Patels 150th birth anniversary, a grand parade will be held annually on October 31 at Ekta Nagar, akin to the Republic Day parade. This year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take the salute of the grand parade. The parade will include Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), state police forces, gallantry awardees, cultural performances, camel contingents, motorcycle stunts, tableaux, and an air show by the Indian Air Forces Surya Kiran team. A nationwide Run for Unity and Unity Pledge will also be organized across schools, universities, district police stations, and all states and Union Territories. From November 115, Bharat Parv will celebrate Indias tribal culture, concluding with a showcase of folk arts, crafts, and music on November 15. Shah emphasized that the parade and associated events aim to inspire youth, reaffirm national unity, and honor Sardar Patels lifelong dedication to the nation.
After cabinet overhaul, Gujarat BJP now plans major organizational reshuffle
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats political scene is changing again. After appointing a new BJP state president and reshuffling the state cabinet, the ruling party is now preparing for another big organizational change. The BJP plans to bring in new leaders to key posts and redraw its power structure from the state capital Gandhinagar to the district level a clear sign that the party is getting ready for the next big election. According to party sources, the next major step will be appointing new State General Secretaries one of the most powerful roles in the partys state unit. These appointments are expected within a week. Currently, the Gujarat BJP has four General Secretaries. Among them, Kutch MP Vinod Chavda is likely to keep his position, while the other three posts may go to new faces. The move aims to strengthen the partys organization and prepare for upcoming political challenges. Party insiders say this reshuffle is not just routine. It is part of a larger strategy to tighten control and improve coordination after the recent cabinet changes, in which ten ministers were dropped. The BJP wants to strengthen its structure at the district level to improve governance and maintain political balance. As part of this plan, new in-charge ministers will be appointed for 20 districts. The government now wants each minister to handle only one districtespecially those with important departmentsto improve focus and accountability. Earlier, many ministers managed two districts, which often reduced efficiency. Even Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi may see changes in his responsibilities. He currently oversees both Vadodara and Gandhinagar districts for the BJP, but he may now retain only Gandhinagar, reflecting the leaderships push for more focused roles. The 20 districts expected to get new in-charge ministers include Aravalli, Mahisagar, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Botad, Bharuch, Bhavnagar, Dahod, Panchmahal, Dang, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Surendranagar, Junagadh, Patan, Narmada, Chhota Udepur, Tapi, and Valsad. Each new appointment will aim to balance political representation and improve administration, helping the BJP strengthen its control both at the grassroots and state levels. With these changes on the way, the Gujarat BJP is reshaping not just its cabinet but also its political strategy getting ready for the road ahead.
Army jawan drowns after rescuing friends from Ozat river in Gujarat's Junagadh
AHMEDABAD: A Diwali outing turned tragic in Junagadhs Vanthali taluka when Army jawan Bharatbhai Bhetaria lost his life while saving his friends from drowning in the Ozat river near Tikar village. On October 22, four friends went to bathe in the river around 4 PM when three were caught in a sudden, powerful current. Bharatbhai, serving in the Indian Army, immediately jumped into the swirling waters and rescued his friends one by one. In the process, he was swept away by the fierce current. Locals alerted the Vanthali Fire Department, a rescue team conducted an overnight search. Family members and villagers waited at the riverbank during the operation. Bhetarias body was recovered at dawn on October 23, concluding the rescue efforts.
BJP set for strategic cabinet overhaul in Gujarat
AHMEDABAD: A cabinet reshuffle in Gujarat appears imminent following a high-stakes meeting in Delhi between Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, BJPs top state and national leadership. With regional and caste equations, upcoming local body elections, and the rising influence of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in play, major political realignments are expected within days. Many sitting ministers are likely to be dropped, while younger, strategically chosen MLAs are tipped for elevation. All eyes are now on the BJPs political balancing act in Gujarat. A late-night power huddle on Monday in Delhifeaturing CM Bhupendra Patel, BJP state president Jagdish Vishwakarma, organizational general secretary Ratnakar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Home Minister Amit Shahhas set the stage for a sweeping cabinet overhaul. The urgency and strategic nature of the meeting signal that the reshuffle is not just likelyit is inevitable. Sources indicate that a final list of ministers is in the works and could be finalized within two to three days. As anticipation builds, the buzz is deafening: whose chair will be pulled, and whose Diwali will shine brighter? The reshuffle is the culmination of months of political calibration. Internal dynamicsfrom caste arithmetic to the looming challenge posed by AAPhave reached a tipping point. With local body elections approaching and AAP leader Gopal Italia gaining traction, especially among Leuva Patidars, BJPs central leadership has decided to reengineer Gujarats political landscape. Reliable sources suggest that many senior ministers are on their way out. Finance Minister Kanu Desai, Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel, and Social Justice Minister Bhanuben Babaria are reportedly at the top of the exit list. Only five current ministersmost notably Health Minister Hrishikesh Patel and Industries Minister Balvantsinh Rajputare expected to retain their portfolios. The reshuffle signals a generational shift within the party. Young MLAs like Jayesh Radadiya (Dhoraji), Uday Kangad (Rajkot), and Rivaba Jadeja (Jamnagar North) are strong contenders for cabinet positions. Saurashtrapolitically volatile and currently a stronghold of AAPs growing influenceis expected to receive special attention. A Leuva Patidar from Amreli or Junagadh may be included to counter the Italia effect. The BJPs caste balancing act extends beyond Saurashtra. With CM Bhupendra Patel representing the Patidar face and Jagdish Vishwakarma as the OBC state president, the party is fine-tuning its social equations. South Gujarat may see the induction of a tribal or female MLA, while in North Gujarat, Alpesh Thakors name is being considered if his community alignment works in BJPs favor. Interestingly, while Congress turncoats like Arjun Modhwadia and C. J. Chavda are still in the mix, only Modhwadia appears to have a strong chancelargely due to a lack of political rivals in Porbandar. Meanwhile, Hardik Patel, once a prominent Patidar youth icon, seems sidelined. Despite his proximity to Amit Shah, sources claim his recent dissent and waning political influence have diminished his chances of a ministerial berth. The reshuffle is not without risks. Elevating defectors over longtime BJP loyalists may spark internal discontent. Striking the right balance between new faces, caste representation, regional expectations, and party loyalty is the BJPs biggest challenge. Former Congress leaders are especially vulnerable, as the party looks to realign around its grassroots cadre. Adding to the political significance is the timely visit of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to Gujarat on Tuesday, coinciding with the Delhi deliberations. The synchrony between the Sangh and the BJP suggests that the reshuffle is part of a broader strategic resetnot just a routine political exercise. In short, Gujarat is on the cusp of a major political reconfigurationdriven by performance, perception, caste equations, and rapidly shifting political dynamics influenced by AAPs rise. What unfolds in the next 48 hours will shape not just the BJPs strategy for upcoming local polls, but also set the tone for 2027 and beyond.
RTI reply exposes audit lapse of over Rs 2 lakh crore in eight Gujarat Municipal Corporations
AHMEDABAD: A massive accountability crisis has exploded in Gujarat as eight major Municipal Corporations have not been audited for several years, leaving a budget worth over Rs 2 lakh crore unaudited and unverified. The revelations, made through an RTI response, expose systemic neglect, violation of audit laws, and a stunning breakdown of financial transparency. Citizens of these cities have effectively been left in the dark about how public money is being spent. Now, Gujarats urban governance is staring at a financial storm. RTI documents have exposed that not a single audit has been completed for several years for eight major Municipal Corporations: Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Bhavnagar, Junagadh, Surat and Vadodara. The data, obtained from the Director of the Local Fund Accounts Office in response to an RTI filed under Section 4(1) of the Act, reveals how thousands of crores of rupees in civic funds have remained unaudited, violating the Gujarat Local Fund Audit Act, 1963. The backlog means that over Rs 2 lakh crore of municipal expenditure across Gujarats largest cities has never undergone mandatory financial scrutiny. With an annual budget of around 12,000 crore in 202425, the Ahmedabad civic body hasnt completed an audit since 201718, which roughly translates to approximately 50,000 crore in unverified accounts for just one city. Similar patterns are seen in Surat and Vadodara, while other corporations have remained unaudited for four to six years. Experts say that this is not a mere technical lapse, but a deep governance failure. Ignored directives, defied laws This financial vacuum exists despite clear legal obligations and repeated directives. Notably, the Gujarat Local Fund Audit Act, 1963, under Section 4 mandates annual audits of all local bodies. The 11th Central Finance Commission (200005) had recommended that the audit of Municipal Corporations be done under the guidance of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), with reports submitted to the State Assembly. A Finance Department resolution on May 6, 2005, and later a circular on December 23, 2011, made this legally binding. The CAG had also flagged the non-compliance in August 2009, urging Gujarat to ensure timely audits. In 2011, Section 108A was added to the Gujarat Provincial Municipal Corporations Act, 1949, to reinforce the obligation. Yet, the RTI reply confirms that none of these directives have been implemented effectively. Last Audited Year, Municipal Corporation and Pending Years. The failure has also meant that no audit reports have been tabled in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly for years, as the audits were never done. The Finance Departments 2011 circular was meant to bring in accountability through CAG-supervised audits of Municipal Corporations. These reports were to be presented before the Assembly, debated, and acted upon. Instead, the process has been derailed for over a decade. Neither the CAG nor the Local Fund Audit Office has enforced strict timelines, and successive governments have allowed this crisis to deepen. RTI applicant raised red flag RTI Activist and Professor Hemant Kumar Shah has slammed the government, alleging a deliberate shielding of irregularities. In a democracy, the audit report for the previous financial year should be presented in the new year, debated by corporators, and acted upon as per rules. If the audit itself is not done for years, transparency collapses, and irregularities get buried, Shah claimed. He further alleged, This is a clear violation of the Gujarat Local Fund Audit Act, 1963. The State Assembly has failed in its duty to ensure annual presentation of audit reports. Transparency is a fundamental principle of democracy. When 2 lakh crore goes unaudited, the publics right to know how their money is used is crushed. Citizens kept in the dark The lack of audits not just weaken financial scrutiny but also denies Gujarats urban citizens of transparency over how civic budgets are spent on critical services like roads, water, housing, and sanitation.Over two crore people live in these eight municipal areas. However, no red flags were raised, no mismanagement was officially recorded. Political and governance questions mount The revelation has triggered serious concerns: Why has the State not enforced its own audit rules for over a decade? How is financial scrutiny being bypassed despite repeated CAG interventions? Who is responsible for this 2 lakh crore transparency vacuum? Legal experts say this is not just an administrative lapse, but a potential violation of constitutional principles governing local self-government. What next? With RTI evidence out in the open, pressure is likely to mount over the State government to immediately initiate pending audits and present reports in the Assembly. Activists and former bureaucrats argue that independent CAG oversight and public disclosure of audit findings are the only way to restore credibility. However, with seven years already lost in some corporations, the process of auditing such massive backlogs will be long, complex and politically sensitive. Whether the State acts decisive or let the lapse unchecked will determine the future of transparency and accountability in Gujarats urban administration. Notably, Hemant Kumar Shah said,If audits are not done, irregularities remain invisible. And when irregularities remain invisible, accountability dies.
Lion Goes Missing From Tamil Nadu's Vandalur Zoo, Search Op Underway
The lion was brought to Vandalur Park from the Chakkarbagh Zoological Park in Junagadh, Gujarat, under the National Animal Exchange Program.
Gujarat monsoon forecast: Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch experience active monsoon conditions. Extremely heavy rain occurred in isolated areas. A low-pressure area influences weather patterns. It may intensify into a depression. The India Meteorological Department forecasts light to moderate rain for the next seven days across the region. Heavy showers are expected in South Gujarat and Saurashtra.
AHMEDABAD: Tension erupted in Vadodaras old city on Friday night after a controversial AI-generated social media post targeting minority religious sentiments went viral. Crowds clashed, stones were thrown, and more than 50 people were detained as police restored order amid heightened communal anxiety. Vadodara witnessed a sharp spike in communal tension late Friday after the viral post inflamed locals in the old city area. The locality became a flashpoint as residents gathered in large numbers, creating a highly volatile situation and hurling stones. Police rushed to the scene as the mobs anger escalated, attempting to prevent the situation from spiralling out of control. The unrest quickly spread to the Vadodara City Police Station, where a mob demanded strict action against the individual responsible for the post. A heavy police presence, including convoys and barricades, was deployed to manage the crowd. About 50 suspects linked to the stone-throwing incident were taken into custody by the Crime Branch from the police station, further intensifying tensions in the area. City police moved swiftly, filing complaints against the accused for spreading communal provocation and registering cases of rioting. Additional security measures were put in place, including two policemen stationed outside the city police station to prevent escalation, while police patrolled the Junagadhi area to maintain calm. Additional Police Commissioner Lina Patil confirmed that separate police and Crime Branch teams intervened promptly, calming the crowd and restoring peace in the affected areas. Addl CP Lina Patil said, There was an incident in the citys old area that hurt religious sentiments. Following this, a crowd gathered outside the police station. Our teams, including separate units from the local police and Crime Branch, immediately intervened to control the situation. The matter has now been contained, and peace has been restored. Police personnel remain deployed in different areas to ensure continued safety, and action is being taken against all those involved in inciting communal tension. DCP Andrew McEwan added that the viral video had triggered the unrest and that police conducted combing operations across the city to prevent further incidents. Legal action has been taken on the viral post and rioting incidents. More than 50 people have been detained so far, DCP McEwan said, underscoring the polices resolve to curb any communal flare-ups.
Rahul Gandhis visit to Gujarat's Junagadh Camp postponed to September 19 due to bad weather
AHMEDABAD: Rahul Gandhis Gujarat push hit turbulence as bad weather in Delhi grounded his flight, forcing the cancellation of his second visit to Junagadhs Congress training camp today. The camp, aimed at reviving the party in Prime Minister Modis home state, has already seen top leadership, including Mallikarjun Kharge, guiding 41 city and district presidents. Congress plans to finalise a two-year strategy to challenge the BJPs three-decade dominance in Gujarat. Rahul Gandhis mission to revive the Congress in Gujarat, a state where the party has been in political exile for 30 years, faced a setback today as bad weather in Delhi grounded his flight, forcing the cancellation of his visit to Junagadh. Rahul was scheduled to return to the foothills of Bhavnath in Junagadh, where a 10-day intensive training camp is underway for 41 newly appointed city and district Congress presidents. The camp is a cornerstone of Congresss Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan, designed to rebuild the party from the ground up ahead of crucial state and national battles. On September 12, Rahul had spent four hours personally mentoring local leaders, signaling the partys renewed seriousness about Gujarat. Today, he was expected to participate again and oversee strategy sessions, but Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) chief Amit Chavda confirmed the cancellation, saying, Today, Rahul Gandhi was scheduled to join us again to mentor the leaders personally and review their progress. Unfortunately, due to severe weather conditions in Delhi, his flight could not take off, and his visit had to be postponed. We now expect him to arrive tomorrow for the camps concluding day, where every city and district president will present their action plans and Congress vision for the people of Gujarat. The camp is being conducted with inputs from experts across sectors, focusing on inclusive politics and grassroots outreach without caste or class barriers. Tomorrows concluding session will see district leaders present their programs and Congresss vision for Gujarats future. However, the absence of some key figures has drawn attention. Gir Somnath district president Punjabbhai Vansh attended only on the opening day and has been missing for the past eight days. Amreli district Congress chief Pratap Dudhat has also skipped the sessions, a fact noted at the partys top level. Chavda defended both leaders, attributing their absence to personal social reasons. Congresss urgency stems from Gujarats status as the home turf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, making every election here symbolically and strategically vital. The party aims to draft a comprehensive two-year roadmap to challenge the BJP juggernaut. The electoral data underscores the enormity of Congress task. In 2009, the BJP secured 47% of the votes to Congresss 44%, winning 15 of Gujarats 26 Lok Sabha seats. But 2014 was a game-changer: BJPs vote share surged to 59% a 12% jump, while Congress fell to 33%, losing all seats. The 2019 polls deepened this gap, with the BJP rising to 62% and the Congress slipping to 32%, again resulting in a clean sweep for the BJP. The 2024 elections brought little relief, as Congress managed to win just one seat, marking a symbolic breakthrough but highlighting the uphill battle ahead. Rahul Gandhis push through this leadership camp is Congresss most aggressive attempt yet to reclaim relevance in Gujarat, a state that has been the BJPs political fortress for over three decades. Tomorrows session will test whether the party can translate training into a tangible action plan to dent the BJPs dominance.
Gujarat scholarship scam: Rs 4.60 crore embezzled, four arrested
AHMEDABAD: A massive Rs 4.60 crore scholarship scam has been busted in Junagadh, Gujarat, where 12 educational institutions siphoned off funds meant for Scheduled Caste students by using fake documents. Police have arrested four key accused, while a manhunt is on for another administrator as the probe deepens. The scam has rocked Junagadh, exposing a deep-rooted nexus between educational institutions and alleged corruption in welfare schemes. Funds meant to empower Scheduled Caste students were embezzled, leaving thousands of deserving youths cheated of their rights. The case came to light after Kishore Bharkhada, Deputy Director of the Scheduled Caste Welfare Office, lodged a formal complaint, triggering the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Junagadh City Division. Acting swiftly, investigators seized documents related to 2,245 students submitted by 12 institutions, which became the foundation of the probe. Upon scrutiny, investigators discovered that between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2016, administrators of these institutions hatched a calculated conspiracy. They fabricated student records and submitted them as genuine to the welfare office. These fake documents were then used to issue scholarship cheques, which were pocketed by the accused, never reaching the students they were intended for. The SIT also sought detailed records from banks linked to these institutions. After cross-checking financial transactions, the involvement of five prime accused surfaced. The Special Operations Group (SOG) of Gujarat Police moved in and arrested four of them, Ramesh Kalubhai Baku, Ramanik Nathabhai Rathod, Bhavin Laljibhai Dadhaniya, and Jagdish Bhikhabhai Parmar. A manhunt has been launched to nab Umar Farooq Ibrahim Amrelia, Administrator and Principal of Mangrols Indian Institute, who remains absconding. Investigators revealed that the scam involved a staggering 4,60,38,550, stolen over a three-year period. The revelation has sent shockwaves through the Scheduled Caste community, where students are now grappling with anger and distrust towards institutions meant to support them. Junagadh C Division Police have filed cases against the principals, trustees, and other office-bearers of the implicated institutions. Authorities have warned that more arrests could follow as the investigation widens. This scandal has sparked outrage, raising serious questions about the accountability of educational institutions and the safeguards within Gujarats scholarship system. The betrayal of vulnerable students has now become a flashpoint for public anger, with calls for stricter oversight and swift justice.
Ahmedabad Diary | Rahuls homework to pep up cadre
Gujarat, a BJP stronghold, is witnessing a fierce political push as Congress gears up for the 2027 Assembly polls. During a Junagadh training camp, Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi urged district and city presidents to set aside their differences, focus on the Congress ideology, and mobilise workers. He assigned homework to leaders, promising to review their answers during his visit on September 18. A sealed report card evaluating their performance will also be handed out, with warnings for underperformers. he plans to spend time in each constituency, staying with local leaders, as Congress intensifies groundwork to challenge the BJPs three-decade dominance in Gujarat. Dairy elections trigger BJP infighting Political temperatures have soared in Gujarats Bharuch district as the Dudhdhara Dairy elections, scheduled for September 19, have turned into a fierce BJP vs. BJP battle. Vagra MLA Arunsinh rana has openly rebelled, fielding his Vikas Panel against the partys official candidates and declaring he will win without the lotus symbol. The BJP suspended nine rebel candidates from ranas panel and three from Narmada, shocking the cooperative sector. Bharuch MP Mansukh Vasava slammed leaders, warning of a future blow in local polls, but State General Secretary rajni Patel defended the suspensions. Perform or perish, Congress chiefs told At a special training camp in Junagadh, the Gujarat Congress sent a stern message to its newly appointed city and district presidents. Citing Mallikarjun Kharges warning that non-performers will lose their posts, Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal issued a 90-day ultimatum to improve. Addressing 41 presidents, Venugopal compared nine poorly performing leaders to rotten mangoes spoiling the basket, signaling sweeping action ahead. Amreli district chief Pratap Dudhats repeated absence drew sharp criticism. Dilip Singh KShatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com
'Vote chori' main issue before country today, PM's Manipur visit now no 'big deal': Rahul Gandhi
JUNAGADH: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday said Manipur has been in trouble for a long time and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the strife-torn state now is not a ig deal as he insisted vote chori (vote theft) remains the main issue before the country currently. Talking to reporters outside the Keshod airport in Junagadh district of Gujarat, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha claimed everywhere people are raising vote chor (vote thief) slogan. After landing at the airport in the afternoon, Gandhi reached Junagadh city where is scheduled to address district and city unit presidents of the Congress in Gujarat and interact with senior leaders. When reporters sought Gandhi's comments on PM Modi's scheduled visit to Manipur on Saturday, the Congress MP sought to downplay his tour to the trouble-torn north-eastern state. Manipur has been in trouble for a long time and the PM has decided to go there now. So that's not a big deal. The main issue today in India is 'vote chori' (vote theft), asserted Gandhi. PM Modi to visit Manipur on Saturday, his first visit since ethnic violence broke out in 2023 Modi will visit Manipur on September 13 and interact with internally displaced people in Churachandpur and state capital Imphal. This will be the PM's first visit to Manipur since ethnic violence broke out in the state two years ago. They stole the elections of Haryana and Maharashtra. We proved that in Karnataka recently. So, the main issue is vote theft. Everywhere people are raising 'vote chor' (vote thief) slogan, said the Lok Sabha MP from Raebareli. A training camp for local party leaders is being organised in Junagadh from September 10 to 19 as part of the Congress' 'Sangathan Srujan Abhiyan' (campaign to strengthen the organisation) in the BJP-ruled state. The camp was inaugurated on Wednesday by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. Rahul Gandhi will address district and city unit presidents and interact with senior leaders of the party. He will be at the event for nearly three hours before leaving for Delhi, Gujarat Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi said.
Vote Chori Main Issue Before Country Today, PMs Manipur Visit Now No Big Deal: Rahul
Junagadh, Sep 12: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday said Manipur has been in trouble for a long time and Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the strife-torn state now is not a big deal as he insisted vote chori (vote theft) remains the main issue before the country currently. Talking to reporters outside the Keshod airport in Junagadh district of Gujarat, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha claimed everywhere people are raising vote chor (vote thief) slogan. [] The post Vote Chori Main Issue Before Country Today, PMs Manipur Visit Now No Big Deal: Rahul appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'Two Gujaratis gave us freedom, now another two are dividing us': Mallikarjun Kharge
AHMEDABAD: In an address in Junagadh, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a sharp attack on the BJP, vowing to safeguard the Constitution and energise party workers for a 2027 Gujarat Assembly battle. With Rahul Gandhi set to join later, Kharge invoked Gandhiji, Sardar Patel, and Nehru to rally Congress cadres, accusing the BJP of weakening democracy and stealing votes. He declared, Two Gujaratis gave us freedom, now two Gujaratis are working against it by dividing people. The three-day Congress training camp aims to rebuild the partys grassroots network in Gujarat and reignite a movement for change. The Congresss roadmap to reclaim Gujarat was visible in Junagadh, as party president Mallikarjun Kharge inaugurated a massive training camp, declaring it the launchpad for a decisive fight against the BJP in the 2027 Assembly elections. With Rahul Gandhi scheduled to attend on September 12 and 17, the camp at Prernadham will run till September 19, training newly appointed district and city Congress presidents. Kharges speech was a blend of history, ideology, and firebrand politics. Without directly naming Prime Minister Modi or BJP leaders, he tore into their agenda, warning, Two Gujaratis gave us freedom, united this nation. Now, two others are destroying that legacy by dividing people and weakening our Constitution. Constitution and Legacy in Focus Kharge reminded the audience that this year marks 100 years since Mahatma Gandhi became Congress President, underlining Gujarats historic role as the birthplace of Gandhiji, Sardar Patel, and Dadabhai Naoroji. He said, Gandhiji told us Congresss job is to uplift those at the bottom and bring equality. Sardar Patel believed strength without organisation is useless, and Nehruji taught us to adapt to change and stay connected with people. Tracing Congresss journey, Kharge divided its 140-year history into three phases the freedom struggle till 1947, the nation-building years after independence, and the past 11 years of serving as a strong opposition. From giving India the Constitution and voting rights to enacting historic laws like MNREGA, Right to Information, and Food Security Act, Congress empowered the people, he said, contrasting it with the BJPs record. Modiji has not brought a single law of such magnitude, Kharge added. Attack on BJP and Vote Theft Claims Taking direct aim at Gujarats BJP government, Kharge accused it of running on remote control from Delhi, saying real power lies outside the state. He alleged widespread vote rigging, claiming that in the Navsari Lok Sabha constituency, 30,000 fake or duplicate voters were found during verification. Referring to the controversial Surat Lok Sabha seat, he warned, This is how BJP comes to power by stealing votes. But this time, Congress will expose and defeat them. Kharge also mocked the Prime Ministers China stance, stating, When Chinese soldiers attacked, PM said no one entered. When Rahulji raised questions, they called him a Chinese agent. Today, he himself is visiting China. Rahul Gandhis Movements Turn Into Mass Campaigns Rahul Gandhis political yatras were presented as a blueprint for mobilising the nation. From the 3,200 km Bharat Jodo Yatra to the 6,700 km Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra, and most recently the Voter Adhikar Yatra in Bihar, Kharge said Rahul turned issues of unemployment, inflation, and farmer distress into peoples movements. Rahulji has shown what determination can achieve, he said, urging workers to channel this spirit in Gujarat. Vision for 2027: Strength Through Training The 10-day training camp, Kharge emphasised, is not just about lectures but about forging identity and strategy. You will leave here stronger, informed, and ready to fight for change. If our district units are strong, no one can stop the storm of change in Gujarat, he declared. Kharge recalled the 2017 elections, where Congress prevented the BJP from winning a single seat in seven districts, cutting its tally below 100 for the first time. This proves the people of Gujarat are ready for change. We just need to unite and channel their anger, he urged. Sardar Patels 150th Anniversary to be Congress Showcase Kharge announced nationwide celebrations for Sardar Patels 150th birth anniversary starting October 31, with a special push in Gujarat. We will respect Sardar, but we will never allow BJP to distort his ideas, he said, positioning Congress as the true custodian of Patels legacy. As the camp opened with patriotic fervour, Kharges message was clear: revive the organisation, reclaim Gujarat, and protect Indias democracy. He ended with Gandhijis words: A handful of committed souls with unbounded faith can change history.
Congress main concern is to protect Constitution and democracy, says Kharge
Junagadh, Sep 10: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday said his partys main concern was to save the Constitution and democracy, and alleged that those in power were not working for protecting these institutions. He was speaking to reporters before inaugurating a 10-day training camp for the Gujarat Congress district and city presidents here. In democracy, it is common to fight elections. Our main issue is to save the Constitution and protect democracy. Gujarat is the land where people like [] The post Congress main concern is to protect Constitution and democracy, says Kharge appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
School Students Assaulted In Gujarat Hostel, Videos Go Viral
Two students of a private school were allegedly brutally assaulted by their hostel mates in separate incidents in Gujarat's Junagadh city last month, sparking concerns of safety and well-being of students across educational institutes.
Ahmedabad Diary | Buzz over CM Patel meeting PM in Delhi
In a surprise political move, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel rushed to Delhi on Thursday, holding a closed-door meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting, held just hours before the Vibrant Gujarat Roadshow in the capital, has triggered intense buzz about the imminent announcement of a new BJP state president. Patel, who will interact with top industrialists, diplomats, and global delegates at the roadshow, praised Modis leadership for making Gujarat a Most Preferred Investment Destination. Political circles are abuzz that this sudden visit signals key policy shifts and a decisive political reshuffle in the state BJP. BJP faction war over joblessness campaign BJPs factional feud in Junagadh burst into the open after former cabinet minister Jawahar Chavda launched an unemployment assistance campaign from his Manavadar bastion. The initiative, aimed at addressing youth joblessness, drew sharp attacks from within his party. BJP MLA Arvind Ladani slammed the drive as a political drama, while Savj Dairy Chairman Dinesh Khataria accused Chavda of betrayal, recalling his switch from the Congress to the BJP. Unfazed, Chavda hit back: My campaign has poured oil in some stomachsanswers will come in time. The escalating war underscores deep rifts in the party. Major reshuffle awaits Gujarat police set-up Gujarat Police is set for a major structural shake-up with plans to increase the number of range IGPs from nine to ten. Sources reveal that Gandhinagar may soon be granted a Police Commissionerate, replacing the SP system, which would prompt Patan and Banaskantha to be transferred out of the Border Range. According to sources, a new Mehsana Range could be formed, while Morbi may merge with East and West Kutch SP areas to create a Kutch-Morbi Range. Simultaneously, Ahmedabad is likely to get a Zone 8 DCP office, driven by the citys growing population and area, signaling sweeping changes in law enforcement operations. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com
Dalit man beaten with belt, threatened with life in Gujarat
A young Dalit man was severely beaten, robbed, and threatened with death in Gujarats Junagadh district. This is the third reported case of caste-based violence in the area in a month. The assault took place on August 16 at the Swami Vivekanand School. The victim was affronted by a person who claimed his brother was Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Dalit youth brutally assaulted in Gujarat's Junagadh, third such case in 21 days
AHMEDABAD: A Dalit youth was brutally thrashed, robbed, and threatened with death in Gujarats Junagadh marking the third caste atrocity in just 21 days. The chilling attack, captured in a viral video, has once again exposed how caste violence remains deeply entrenched in society despite decades of independence. Even after 78 years of independence, caste violence refuses to die down. The incident unfolded on the afternoon of August 16, when the victim had gone to meet a friend. A boy ran up to him, pleading for help as his brother was being taken away. The Dalit youth and his friend followed him to the Swami Vivekanand School ground, only to find out that he had walked into a trap. There, three Upper Caste youths confronted him, asking about his background. When he replied that he was from Kadiawad, the attackers led by one Hitesh and two unidentified accomplices began to abuse him with casteist slurs, and thrashed him with belts and sticks until injury marks covered his body. The assailants then snatched the victims mobile phone and threatened to kill him if he dared complain to the police. They beat me up with a belt and a stick, robbed my phone, and threatened my life. Today its me, tomorrow it could be someone else. I only demand justice, the victim said from Junagadh Civil Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment. Police have since registered a case under multiple sections of the IPC at Junagadh A Division Police Station. Separate teams have been formed to nab the accused. DySP Hitesh Dhandhaliya assured that strict legal action will be taken at the earliest. The Junagadh assault is not an isolated act of cruelty. It is the third atrocity against Dalits in Gujarat within the last 21 days, a chilling reminder that caste prejudice continues to fuel violence even today. Each incident is another crack in the promise of equality, and another urgent call for justice. Dalit youth, father-in-law brutally beaten in Gujarat for upper-caste moustache; 5 accused on the run
AHMEDABAD: A shocking case of caste-based violence has emerged from Gujarats Junagadh district, where a Dalit youth and his father-in-law were brutally assaulted for keeping a beard and moustache that their attackers claimed were reserved for upper castes. The incident, which occurred on August 11 in Khambhaliya (Ozat) village, has sparked outrage, with police registering a case under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The victims, identified as Sagar Makwana, a labourer from Mangnath Pipli village, and his father-in-law Jivanbhai Wala, were allegedly attacked by a group of men who hurled casteist slurs and mocked Sagars appearance. According to the complaint, Sagar had gone to Khambhaliya to get his bike repaired but found the garage closed. As he was returning home, he was stopped near a railway bridge by Shailesh Jebaliya from Navi Chavand village, who allegedly knocked him off his bike and began abusing him for his beard and moustache. Fearing further assault, Sagar called his father-in-law for help. However, when Jivanbhai arrived, a silver car without a number plate pulled up, carrying Lalo Bhupat and three unidentified men. The group allegedly intensified the casteist abuse before launching a violent attackbeating Sagar with a car wheel while punching and slapping Jivanbhai. The assailants fled only after villagers began gathering, but not before issuing threats. Jivanbhai Wala and Sagar Makwana are currently undergoing treatment. Both victims were rushed to Junagadh Civil Hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Police have filed an FIR against Shailesh Jebaliya, Lalo Kathi Darbar, and three unidentified accomplices under relevant sections of the SC/ST Act. ASP Rohit Kumar Dagar confirmed to The New Indian Express that the accused are absconding and efforts are underway to arrest them. The incident has reignited concerns over deep-seated caste discrimination in rural Gujarat, with activists demanding swift justice for the victims.
New veterinary & animal husbandry college to be set up in North Gujarat
This will be the fifth veterinary college in the state after Anand, Navsari, Junagadh, and Dantiwada
A surprising encounter occurred in Gujarat. A cement factory worker in Junagadh had a face-to-face meeting with a lion. CCTV captured the incident. Both the man and the lion were startled. They ran in opposite directions. The video went viral on social media. People reacted with amusement and caution. The incident serves as a reminder of wildlife encounters.
Three lion cubs dead, six isolated: Amreli scare fuels fresh worry over Gujarats lion losses
AHMEDABAD: Three lion cubs have died and six more are under observation in Gujarats Amreli district, triggering alarm over a possible health threat in the Asiatic lion population. While officials rule out a contagious epidemic, the mysterious deaths have raised concern across the state, especially given the rising lion mortality figures reported in recent years. In a concerning development from Gujarats lion territory, three Asiatic lion cubs were confirmed dead near Kagvadar village in Amrelis Jafrabad taluka, while six others have been isolated following signs of weakness and illness. The incident has sparked widespread concern amid growing scrutiny over lion deaths in the state. The forest department initiated a rescue operation after reports emerged that a group of cubs in the Jafrabad Range were unable to walk and appeared critically weak. The rescue team, upon arrival, found the condition of the cubs grave. Despite immediate medical attention, three of the cubs died during treatment. Confirming the incident, Forest Minister Mulu Bera said, Three lion cubs died two days ago near Kagvadar village. This is extremely unfortunate. He added that blood samples have been collected from six cubs and three lionesses for further testing. All animals have been isolated as a precaution, while veterinary experts from Junagadh College are probing the cause. Addressing speculation around a possible outbreak, DCF Dhananjay Sadhu of Palitana Shetrunji Division clarified that there is no evidence of a contagious disease. These deaths appear to be due to anemia or pneumonia as per preliminary assessments. When lionesses give birth, some cubs are naturally weak. The rescue was part of routine protocol, not emergency containment, Sadhu emphasized. He further stated that the remaining lions under observation are stable, and there are no visible signs of infection. The lions will be reintroduced into the wild once cleared through medical tests. Rumors of a spreading epidemic are false, he asserted. Gujarat government confirms it lost 286 lions, 456 leopards in two years This is not the first such incident in the area. Just 25 days ago, four weak lion cubs had wandered from the Mines area of Jafrabad Range into the Rajula Range. All were rescued and are still undergoing treatment at the Babarkot Animal Care Center. The deaths come amid growing scrutiny of Gujarats handling of lion conservation. Earlier this year, the state government revealed in the Gujarat Assembly that 286 lions including 143 cubs died between January 2023 and December 2024. While most deaths were attributed to natural causes, at least 58 lions and 17 cubs died unnaturally. This comes even as Gujarat celebrates a rise in its lion population. On May 21, 2025, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced that the state is now home to 891 Asiatic lions, up from 674 in 2020, a 32% increase in just five years. However, the rise in cub mortality casts a shadow over the population growth. Officials say investigations are ongoing and results from blood tests will determine whether these recent deaths are isolated or symptomatic of a larger problem. Gujarats Asiatic lion count leaps from 674 to 891 in five years
Shivraj Chouhan Leaves Wife Behind At Gujarat Event, Makes U-Turn With 22-Car Convoy
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan left Junagadh for Rajkot, unknowingly leaving his wife behind. Realizing after 10 minutes, he returned to fetch her.
Miraculous escape for eight people as bridge slab collapses in Gujarats Junagadh amid repairs
AHMEDABAD: Just days after the Gambhira bridge collapse between Vadodara and Anand claimed 21 lives, Gujarat has been jolted by another alarming bridge mishap this time in Junagadhs Mangrol taluka. In Ajak village, a portion of a dilapidated bridge gave way, plunging over eight people and a breaker machine into the river from a height. Miraculously, all were rescued without fatalities. Even as panic spread, the Junagadh District Executive Engineer claimed, the bridge hadnt collapsed but was being safely dismantled. In yet another bridge-related scare in Gujarat on Tuesday, a portion of the Ajak village bridge in Junagadhs Mangrol taluka collapsed during ongoing repair work, narrowly avoiding a major tragedy. The bridge, a crucial link between Keshod and Madhavpur and frequented by thousands of vehicles daily, gave way while a breaker machine was operating on it, sending the machine and eight to ten people standing on the slab plunging nearly 15 feet into the river below. Though the collapse caused a loud crash and panic among onlookers, all individuals involved escaped without serious injuries. A video of the dramatic incident has since gone viral, capturing the sheer chaos and fear as the slab crumbled in seconds. Local residents are furious, alleging that the repair work was carried out recklessly and without adequate safety measures. This is a public road with heavy daily traffic. Peoples lives are being risked without basic precautions or planning, said a villager, slamming the administrations negligence. Responding to the criticism, Junagadh District Panchayats Executive Engineer, Abhishek Gohil, confirmed that the bridge was indeed found to be in a dilapidated state during an inspection by the Road & Building Department. The old bridge near Mangrol was not damaged or broken it was deliberately demolished as a safety measure. During the slab removal process, a portion of it collapsed, but thankfully, no one was injured. Gohil clarified. Junagadh District Collector Anil Ranavasia added that the 10-meter-long bridge, divided into two spans, had already been closed to vehicular traffic two days ago. This bridge was flagged for demolition and reconstruction. Warning boards were placed on both sides. The slab collapsed due to the load of the equipment like JCB, but the area had already been sealed off, In fact, the bridge wasnt fell, it was intentionally demolished. Ranavasia told the media. He also noted that following the recent bridge collapse in Gambhira, inspections of over 480 bridges across the district had been conducted in the past five days, resulting in six being shut down for safety reasons. The administration maintains that Ajaks bridge was under supervised demolition not a spontaneous collapse but public anger over repeated infrastructure failures continues to rise.
Miraculous escape for 8 people as bridge slab collapses in Gujarats Junagadh amid repairs
AHMEDABAD: Just days after the Gambhira bridge collapse between Vadodara and Anand claimed 21 lives, Gujarat has been jolted by another alarming bridge mishap this time in Junagadhs Mangrol taluka. In Ajak village, a portion of a dilapidated bridge gave way, plunging over eight people and a breaker machine into the river from a height. Miraculously, all were rescued without fatalities. Even as panic spread, the Junagadh District Executive Engineer claimed, the bridge hadnt collapsed but was being safely dismantled. In yet another bridge-related scare in Gujarat on Tuesday, a portion of the Ajak village bridge in Junagadhs Mangrol taluka collapsed during ongoing repair work, narrowly avoiding a major tragedy. The bridge, a crucial link between Keshod and Madhavpur and frequented by thousands of vehicles daily, gave way while a breaker machine was operating on it, sending the machine and eight to ten people standing on the slab plunging nearly 15 feet into the river below. Though the collapse caused a loud crash and panic among onlookers, all individuals involved escaped without serious injuries. A video of the dramatic incident has since gone viral, capturing the sheer chaos and fear as the slab crumbled in seconds. Local residents are furious, alleging that the repair work was carried out recklessly and without adequate safety measures. This is a public road with heavy daily traffic. Peoples lives are being risked without basic precautions or planning, said a villager, slamming the administrations negligence. Responding to the criticism, Junagadh District Panchayats Executive Engineer, Abhishek Gohil, confirmed that the bridge was indeed found to be in a dilapidated state during an inspection by the Road & Building Department. The old bridge near Mangrol was not damaged or broken it was deliberately demolished as a safety measure. During the slab removal process, a portion of it collapsed, but thankfully, no one was injured. Gohil clarified. Junagadh District Collector Anil Ranavasia added that the 10-meter-long bridge, divided into two spans, had already been closed to vehicular traffic two days ago. This bridge was flagged for demolition and reconstruction. Warning boards were placed on both sides. The slab collapsed due to the load of the equipment like JCB, but the area had already been sealed off, In fact, the bridge wasnt fell, it was intentionally demolished. Ranavasia told the media. He also noted that following the recent bridge collapse in Gambhira, inspections of over 480 bridges across the district had been conducted in the past five days, resulting in six being shut down for safety reasons. The administration maintains that Ajaks bridge was under supervised demolition not a spontaneous collapse but public anger over repeated infrastructure failures continues to rise.
Old bridge collapses during repair in Gujarats Junagadh district, no casualties reported
The bridge in Junagadh, which links Keshod to Madhavpur, was under maintenance when the collapse occurred.
Gujarats crumbling bridges: How many more deaths will it take?
AHMEDABAD: Yet another bridge collapse in Gujarat has jolted the state, exposing deep-rooted negligence and crumbling infrastructure. The 40 year-old Gambhira Bridge in Vadodara district fell apart early Wednesday, dragging multiple vehicles into the Mahisagar River. While the government rushes to give reassurances, a haunting question persistshow many tragedies will it take before accountability replaces apathy? Gambhira Bridge Collapse: 9 Dead, 9 Rescued The Gambhira Bridge, connecting Central Gujarat to Saurashtra via Padra taluka in Vadodara district, collapsed early Wednesday morning in Mujpur Nazir. The bridge, known to be in a dilapidated condition for years, finally gave way dragging down two trucks, a pickup van, an auto-rickshaw, and an Eco car into the swollen Mahisagar River. Rescue teams pulled out nine bodies, while nine others were rescued alive. The bridge had shown warning signs of structural decay, yet no action was taken to shut it down or carry out urgent repairs. Public Fury Grows: Who Will Be Held Responsible? The tragedy has sparked public outrage. Citizens are questioning why the bridge was not closed despite its poor condition. Why are officials always reactive instead of proactive? Time and again, bridges across Gujarat have collapsed, and yet, the cycle of negligence, empty promises, and lack of accountability continues. Assurances after each disaster have failed to turn into meaningful reforms or penalties for those responsible. Gujarats Shameful Bridge Collapse Timeline Hatkeshwar Bridge, Ahmedabad : Built to Last 100 Years, Failed in 5. Constructed in 2017 at a cost of Rs 40 crore, the Hatkeshwar Bridge was deemed structurally unsound in under four years. Shockingly, AMC floated a tender to demolish a bridge that was supposed to last a century. Mumtapura Bridge, Ahmedabad : On December 21, 2021, a section of the Mumtapura Bridge caved in, raising serious questions about the project company. Thankfully, the collapse didnt claim lives, but it intensified the fear surrounding Gujarat's infrastructure. Halvad Bridge, Morbi New But Unreliable: A bridge connecting New Koiba to Old Koiba collapsed on August 26, 2024just a year after it was built. Heavy rains washed away the structure, exposing poor construction quality. Morbi Suspension Bridge : Gujarats Darkest Day. On October 30, 2022, a British-era suspension bridge over the Machhu River collapsed, killing 141 people. The bridge had reopened just four days prior after repairs. It was designed for 125 people but had over 500 on it. Metro Flyover, Surat : Cracked Before Inauguration A section of the metro flyover in Saroli, Surat, Cracked even before being inaugurated. Cracks in the slab were ignored until it was too late. The bridge gave way during metro construction work. Ambedkar Bridge, Mehsana : Repeated Pleas Ignored Despite repeated requests for repair, the Ambedkar Bridge connecting Mehsana-Visnagar ring roads One part sunk on February 14 2024. Built in 2014, it had structural issues that were never addressed. Habiasar Bridge, Chotila : Heavy Rains Take It Down A bridge near Habiasar village in Surendranagar district collapsed during heavy rain. It connected over five villages. Luckily, the road was closed to traffic at the time. Under-Construction Flyover, Palanpur : Girder Collapse Kills One On October 23, 2023, two girders of an under-construction overbridge near the Palanpur RTO Circle broke. A rickshaw driver lost his life, and two others were injured. Bamangam-Parij Bridge, Kheda : Old Warnings, Zero Action The bridge connecting Baman and Parij collapsed on October 4, 2023. Villagers had raised alarms about its condition long ago. No one was on the bridge at the time, narrowly avoiding tragedy. Dhandhusar Bridge, Junagadh : 1975 Construction Falls Apart A part of the 45-year-old Dhandhusar bridge over the Uben River collapsed in 2023. Local connectivity took a major hit, forcing people into long detours and hardship. Rajkots Madhapar Chowk Pier Collapse Workers Injured On January 25, 2022, a pier under construction at Madhapar Chowk caved in, injuring two workers. The incident happened during concrete capping work. Janada Bridge, Botad Built in Lakhs, Collapsed in Three Years In Botads Janada village, a bridge over the Patlia River collapsed during monsoon 2023. Built just three years ago, it couldnt withstand seasonal rains. Khari River Bridge, Mehsana Bypass One part sunk in 2020 A bridge constructed over the Khari River on the Mehsana Bypass, built at a cost of crores, crumbled in just six years. The 2020 sunk was one of the early warnings of the ongoing infrastructure crisis. Other Notable Incidents : Singhrot, Vadodara (2023) Another bridge collapse with public uproar. Nandelav Bridge, Bharuch (June 2022) Under-construction bridge collapsed; people miraculously survived. Ajidem Intersection, Rajkot (2020) Bridge collapse with no casualties. Satodak Village, Rajkot (2019) Fatal structural failure. Peapok Flyover, Surat (2019) Yet another collapse highlighting contractor failure. Conclusion: Decay, Death, and Denial The recurring collapse of bridgeswhether newly built or agedreveals a systemic failure in Gujarat's infrastructure governance. Contractors cut corners, tenders are mishandled, warnings go unheeded, and officials continue to pass the buck. Behind every collapsed structure is a trail of ignored complaints, wasted taxpayer money, and shattered families. Unless real accountability is enforced and urgent structural audits conducted, Gambhira will not be the last bridge to falland Gujarat will keep mourning preventable deaths.
No alliance with Congress, INDIA bloc was only for LS polls: Kejriwal after Gujarat bypoll win
AHMEDABAD: Aam Aadmi Partys national convener Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday that his party no longer has an alliance with the Congress, accusing it of helping the ruling BJP in Gujarat. The Congress-led INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) grouping of opposition parties was meant only for the Lok Sabha elections last year, he said. Addressing a press conference here, the former Delhi chief minister said his party will fight the 2027 Gujarat assembly elections and emerge victorious as people of the state now have an option other than the BJP and Congress. We have no alliance with Congress. If there was any alliance, why did they contest the bypoll in Visavadar? They came to defeat us. The BJP had sent the Congress to defeat AAP by cutting our votes. When Congress failed, the BJP even reprimanded them. The INDIA bloc was only for the Lok Sabha polls. Now there is no alliance from our side, said Kejriwal. AAP leader Gopal Italia won the bypoll to the Visavadar seat in Junagadh district last month by defeating BJPs Kirit Patel by a margin of over 17,000 votes. Congress nominee Nitin Ranpariya stood in the third spot with 5,501 votes. Kejriwal claimed that the BJP has ruined Gujarat in its 30-year rule. The Congress has failed as an opposition because it helps the BJP retain power, he said. Be it farmers, youths or the middle class, every section of society is unhappy with the BJP. Despite unemployment, more than half of the posts are lying vacant, and jobs are given only on a contract basis. Despite that, the BJP has been winning elections because people did not have any option, said Kejriwal. People used to say that 'we want to defeat the BJP, but whom should we vote for?' Everyone knows that the Congress is in their pocket. In a way, a contract has been given to the Congress to help the BJP win every election. And Congress does its work very well, said Kejriwal. After the Visavadar bypoll, AAP has emerged as a strong alternative to both these parties, and people are banking their hopes on his party, said Kejriwal. To dethrone the BJP, AAP cadres will campaign vigorously in Gujarat and go door-to-door for the next two and a half years to convince people ahead of the 2027 assembly polls, he said. From today, we are starting 'Gujarat Jodo Abhiyan', under which people can join AAP by giving a missed call to our number. Our workers will also visit each and every house. AAP is a party of youths. I appeal to the youths, who want a corruption-free Gujarat, to join us in large numbers, he added. In the 182-member Gujarat assembly, the BJP has 162 MLAs, Congress 12 and AAP 5. While one seat is with the Samajwadi Party, two legislators are independents.
