Gopal Italia Slams BJP in Surat, Dares CR Paatil, Sanghavi

Surat, Gujarat  —  In a fiery comeback that electrified Surat’s political landscape, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Gopal Italia received a rousing welcome on his first visit to the city after his stunning by-election victory in Visavadar. From Kamrej to Sarthana, hundreds turned up to greet the former state president, as he launched a blistering attack on BJP stalwarts CR Paatil and Harsh Sanghavi, accusing them of corruption, abuse of power, and destroying Gujarat’s democratic ethos.

“He always tries to break MLAs. I challenge CR Paatil—try breaking one now. Let’s hold a by-election and let the people decide,” Italia thundered at the Sarthana Community Hall, addressing AAP workers and supporters.

Italia’s remarks directly targeted Gujarat BJP chief CR Paatil, accusing him of engineering political defections. He also took aim at Harsh Sanghavi, Gujarat’s Home Minister, for failing to maintain law and order, calling the current political culture “a disgrace to the legacy of Gandhi and Sardar Patel.”

“This land of Gandhi and Sardar is now being ruled by bootleggers, land mafias, and rapists. That is deeply painful,” Italia said, drawing loud applause.

Victory of the People Over BJP’s Machinery

Reflecting on his Visavadar triumph, Italia described it as “a fight between state power and common people.”

“On one side was the BJP’s army of ministers, MLAs, bootleggers, and goons. On the other side were ordinary citizens. And the people won,” he declared.

He praised the people of Visavadar, Bhesan, and rural Junagadh for standing by truth and rejecting BJP’s arrogance. “This win is not mine—it belongs to Gujarat,” Italia said.

‘BJP-Created Floods’: Italia Slams Sanghavi’s Incompetence

Referring to recent flooding in Surat and other cities, Italia slammed the government’s failure.

“We can go to the Moon and Mars but can’t drain rainwater from our cities. These are BJP-created floods caused by corruption and mismanagement,” he alleged.

He directly blamed Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi for the administration’s apathy in Surat, Vadodara, and Junagadh.

Massive Support in Surat

Italia’s visit turned into a mini roadshow. He was welcomed with garlands and drumbeats at Kamrej, Singh Circle, Ved Road, and Sarthana. A grand function at Sarthana Community Hall saw the participation of AAP corporators, state leaders, and hundreds of volunteers.

“Many lost hope after 2022. But those who stayed, fought, and believed—this is your victory too,” Italia said, emotionally thanking his team.

From Constable to Challenger

Italia, once a police constable, has emerged as a fierce challenger to Gujarat’s political establishment. Known for his rebellious activism—like throwing a slipper at then Home Minister Pradipsinh Jadeja—he has become a symbol of Gujarat’s political resistance.

“People feared Gopal Italia would break. But I will not break—I will break BJP’s arrogance,” he concluded, as the hall erupted in applause.