Former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Deve Gowda, in a heartfelt letter, pleaded with Patidar reservation leader Hardik Patel to call off his fast unto death, stating that the youth leader’s services “are needed to this country to fight further for good causes”.

Deve Gowda also wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging his intervention in Hardik Patel’s fast before the youth leader’s death.

Hardik Patel began an indefinite fast at his home in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on 25 August, stating that he wouldn’t eat till his demand for reservation for members of the Patel community in public employment and educational institutions was met.

Patel has also sought a loan waiver for farmers in the state.