Khattar's Last-Minute Punjabi Appeal Sparks Political Row in Karnal

Former Chief Minister and Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has made a passionate appeal to Punjabi voters in Karnal, urging them to "take revenge" through their votes against alleged Congress insults. 

Identity Politics Takes Center Stage

Speaking at a Punjabi convention on Wednesday evening, Khattar recalled alleged derogatory remarks made against him: "They said 'Khattar-Pattar, jahe se aaye ho, vahi baad denge' (you will be sent back where you came from)." The former CM's emotional appeal comes as BJP seeks to secure the crucial Punjabi vote bank in support of their candidate, Jagmohan Anand.

Congress Leaders Hit Back

Opposition leaders have strongly criticized Khattar's approach. Former Deputy Mayor Manoj Wadhwa pointed out the apparent contradiction in Khattar's stance, noting that the former CM had previously promoted the slogan "Haryana Ek, Haryanvi Ek" (One Haryana, One Haryanvi) and had even suggested dropping his surname. Congress leader Parag Gaba, the district president of Punjabi Mahasabha, accused Khattar of neglecting Punjabi interests during his chief ministerial tenure. 

The controversy highlights the delicate balance political leaders must maintain between regional unity and community-specific appeals in Haryana's diverse political landscape. As the election approaches, both major parties are intensifying their outreach to the influential Punjabi community in Karnal.