New Delhi: Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday stirred controversy by describing Jawaharlal Nehru’s appointment as India’s first prime minister as an “accident.” This prompted a strong reaction from Congress leader and former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda.
Khattar, addressing an audience in Rohtak, Haryana, said, “Instead of Nehru, the post should have been given to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel or Dr BR Ambedkar.” In response, Hooda criticised Khattar. He said that someone who himself rose to the position of an “accidental prime minister” should refrain from making such comments.
Khattar on Ambedkar’s legacy
During the same event, Khattar spoke about the BJP’s commitment to Dr Ambedkar’s legacy. He said, “The Constitution is our holy scripture and Dr Ambedkar’s role in drafting it is monumental. We must continually acknowledge this. Dr Ambedkar faced many challenges, including being denied a cremation site in Delhi after his death. It was only after the BJP came to power that five major sites associated with Dr Ambedkar were established, reflecting a level of respect not seen before.” The statement comes after the recent passing of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh at the age of 92, which sparked a debate over the establishment of a memorial at his cremation site, a tradition for former prime ministers.
Khattar confident of BJP win in Delhi
Looking ahead to the Delhi Assembly elections scheduled for February 5, Khattar said he is confident in the BJP’s chances. He said, “This time, Arvind Kejriwal and his party will not be able to form the government in Delhi. The BJP is gaining strength and will deliver a strong performance.” The BJP secured a major victory in the Haryana Assembly elections last October and Nayab Singh Saini taking on the role of chief minister.
