AHMEDABAD: Gujarat Congress leaders began a 'satyagraha' on the footpath opposite the Sabarmati Ashram on Saturday when Narendra Modi's three-day 'Sadbhavna' mission at Gujarat University exhibition hall hogged headlines.

Congress leaders Shankarsinh Vaghela, Shaktisinh Gohil and Arjun Modhvadia began a 74-hour fast with 51 party supporters. The Congress leaders first offered tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at the ashram. They said Modi's was a five-star fast and, hence, in stark contrast they kept theirs simple.

"This five and seven star culture is being used for image building. Why did he have to fast? Have heavens fallen on Gujarat's public?" said Vaghela.

Supporters streamed in batches of 100-200, including Muslims, Hindu sadhus, women, tribals and villagers from across the state.

Praful Vaghela and Shantilal Vaghela, whose sons Dipesh and Abhishek died under mysterious circumstances at Asaram Bapu Ashram, joined the Congress fast seeking justice. Chaya, sister of slain minister Haren Pandya, was also present.

"The chief minister did not meet the families of Dipesh and Abhishek Vaghela after their death. When Haren Pandya was killed, Modi asked his ministers not to visit his home," said Shaktisinh Gohil, leader of the opposition.

Congress leaders accused the Gujarat chief minister of corruption. "The CAG has reported Rs 26,000 crore financial irregularities in five years of Modi's rule. Modi supports Anna Hazare for Jan Lokpal Bill but goes to high court against the governor who appointed Lokayukta in Gujarat. What does he have to hide?" Modhvadia said.