Rajya Sabha MP Jangra Blames Devi Lal for Starting Casteism in Haryana Politics
Ram Chandra Jangra alleges former CM Chaudhary Devi Lal initiated caste-based politics; claims Bhupinder Hooda took it to peak levels
Newsarc Bureau
ROHTAK: Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Ram Chandra Jangra has sparked a political controversy by claiming that legendary Haryana leader Chaudhary Devi Lal was responsible for introducing caste-based politics in the state, while former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda later amplified it to unprecedented levels.
Speaking at a public gathering in Rohtak, Jangra made the explosive allegations against two of Haryana’s most influential political figures, both of whom have left indelible marks on the state’s political landscape.
“Chaudhary Devi Lal initiated the practice of caste-based politics in Haryana, which fundamentally changed the nature of political discourse in our state,” Jangra stated. “However, it was Bhupinder Hooda who took this divisive politics to its peak during his tenure as Chief Minister.”
The Rajya Sabha MP’s comments have triggered sharp reactions from political circles, particularly from the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and Congress party, which view Chaudhary Devi Lal and Hooda respectively as their tallest leaders in the state.
Chaudhary Devi Lal, who served as Chief Minister of Haryana twice and later as Deputy Prime Minister of India, is widely remembered for championing farmer rights and advocating for backward classes. His political legacy continues through his family, including his son Om Prakash Chautala, who has also served as Chief Minister.
Bhupinder Singh Hooda, who served as Haryana’s Chief Minister from 2005 to 2014, has been a dominant force in state Congress politics and is credited with significant infrastructure development, though critics have often accused him of promoting caste-based considerations in governance and party organization.
Political analysts suggest that Jangra’s remarks may be part of a broader strategy to reshape political narratives ahead of upcoming elections, though the timing and target of his criticism have raised eyebrows across party lines.
The INLD and Congress are expected to respond strongly to these allegations, which challenge the legacies of two leaders who have shaped Haryana’s political identity for decades.
