Search the Internet          Tips

Vaghela ends fast, hoists flag at Bhatiji Maharaj's temple

Both the BJP and the Congress had proposed to hold parallel programmes at the temple on Tuesday, creating considerable tension in parts of the state.

However, to avoid a confrontation, the BJP on Sunday announced that it was postponing the launch of the yatra to September seven.

Phagvel forms part of Vaghela's Kapadvanj Lok Sabha constituency and the temple is a well-known one. It was built in memory of Bhatiji Maharaj, a Kshatriya, who died protecting cows being sent to the slaughter house some 200 years ago.

Vaghela began his fast on Monday to protest against 'misuse of official machinery' by the state government to promote the Gujarat Gaurav Yatra and to demand its cancellation.

To make the incident more dramatic, Vaghela had reached the village riding a horse accompanied by thousands of his supporters.

Before ending his fast, Vaghela hoisted the flag at the temple as a thanksgiving gesture on his appointment as state Congress president.

PTI

Gujarat Elections 2002: The complete coverage

Back to top

Tell us what you think of this report