The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): On Tuesday, 9 April, police intercepted Karni Sena leader Raj Shekhawat at Ahmedabad airport, preventing him from leading a planned protest at the BJP’s state headquarters in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Shekhawat, who heads the Karni Sena, a group representing the Kshatriya or Rajput community, had announced plans to surround the BJP headquarters, known as ‘Kamalam’, in response to disparaging comments made by Union Minister Parshottam Rupala about historical Rajput rulers.
The controversy stems from a speech Rupala gave on 22 March in Rajkot, where he criticized the erstwhile ‘maharajas’ for their alliances with foreign and British rulers, remarks that have been perceived by many in the Rajput community as offensive. The community has demanded Rupala’s removal from the BJP’s candidate list for the Rajkot Lok Sabha seat, threatening electoral repercussions if their demands are not met.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (G Division), VN Yadav, confirmed Shekhawat’s detention shortly after his arrival from the flight. This move comes amid heightened security at the BJP headquarters, where police anticipated significant unrest due to the protest call.
Shekhawat, who had resigned from the BJP following Rupala’s comments, had mobilized support through social media, urging community members to join the protest armed with saffron flags and sticks. Despite Rupala’s subsequent apology, his remarks have ignited a series of protests across the state, showcasing deep-seated resentment within the community.
The incident underscores the tense political atmosphere in Gujarat as the state prepares for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections scheduled for 7 May, where all 26 seats will be contested in a single phase.