How can I change template varibale in a react plugin in grafana 7.0?

Hi, I’m trying to use this method to update variables. Right now I’m seeing:

new_variable=new_value

in the URL parameters so it works. Is this the way to add ad hoc filters for elasticsearch datasource? If so, how do I change the equals to something else?

Thank you!

This is what I’m trying to achieve: Set ad hoc filter from Panel Plugin