On 9th day of fast-unto-death, Hardik Patel says he has prepared his will

As his fast unto death entered the 9th day on Sunday, Patidar leader Hardik Patel said he had made his will, anticipating he may die of hunger following no response from the state government to his agitation. His parents, a guashala (cow shelter) and kin of 14 Patidar youths who died in violent protests three years ago have been named as inheritors of his will.

Contrary to his opulent lifestyle, which includes a plush residence, high-end cars and expensive mobile phone and watches, Hardik in his will has claimed his assets include a car, a life insurance policy and Rs 50,000 in cash.

The Patidar leader is, however, expecting royalty worth crores of rupees from an upcoming biography. This royalty he has willed to be distributed among his parents Bharatbhai and Ushaben, sister Monica and the kin of the 14 community youths who died in police firing during a statewide protest in August 2015.

“He has declared Rs 50,000 in cash in an Axis Bank account, a life insurance policy and a car,” said Manoj Panara, convenor of Hardik’s Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS).

“He has declared that Rs 20,000 will go to his parents and the rest to a gaushala in Virpur near Rajkot city,” Panara added.

Demanding OBC reservation for his Patidar community and farm loan waiver, the 25-year-old firebrand leader has given up food since August 25.

A number of Congress leaders have visited Hardik at his Ahmedabad residence – Green Wood Resort – while Congress allies including NCP, TMC and RJD, and AAP have extended their support to him.