Unite or regret later: Karnal MP to Punjabis

BIG DIVIDE Comes out in support of fellow BJP Lok Sabha member Saini, slams khaps for objecting to Charkhi Dadri rally

When Punjabis came here after the Partition, they didn’t ask for reservation and succeeded on their own. It is clear that some people have become jealous of our success. ASHWINI CHOPRA, BJP MP

ROHTAK: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Karnal Ashwini Chopra on Sunday asked Punjabi community to unite to ensure their safety in the state. Chopra was addressing a gathering at Punjabi Jagriti Manch on the occasion of Diwali Mela in Bhiwani.

“When Punjabis came here after the Partition, they didn’t ask for reservation and succeeded on their own. It is clear that some people have become jealous of our success. Punjabis need to join hands now, or regret later like during the February Jat-quota violence,” said Chopra.

Coming out in support of Kurukshetra MP Raj Kumar Saini, Chopra slammed khaps for forcing him to cancel the Charkhi Dadri rally. “Everyone must be allowed to have their say in a democracy,” said Chopra.

The journo-turned-politician said Punjabis comprise 28% of the population in Haryana, while Jats comprise 30%, just 2% more. “If Punjabis unite, they can ensure good governance in the state,” said Chopra.

Taking a dig at former chief minister Bansi Lal, who hailed from Bhiwani, Chopra said: “I have come to Bhiwani for the first time because I was scared of Bansi Lal. I didn’t like him. He had maintained his fear among all officials.”