No takers for 'bapu-beta' style of politics: Khattar to Hooda

Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar has advised former CM and Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda to strengthen internal democracy within his party by allowing leaders outside his (Hooda) family to rise.

“If the Congress continues with this 'bapu-beta' style of politics, it will only harm the party. Dynastic politics, where leadership is passed down like royalty, no longer resonates with people,” said Khattar while responding to media questions about Hooda’s defence of his family legacy and ties to the freedom movement in response to BJP's criticism of 'bapu-beta' politics.

Khattar stated this at the Mini Secretariat after chairing a meeting of the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DDCMC–DISHA) today.

Following the Congress’ defeat in the Assembly elections, Hooda has faced criticism from both BJP leaders and members of his own party over his alleged 'bapu-beta' politics. However, Hooda recently defended his family’s legacy, highlighting his family’s contributions to the freedom movement.

However, Khattar took a dig at Hooda's remarks, saying that several families from various parties are linked to the freedom struggle, not just the Hooda family.

Being asked about Delhi’s pollution crisis, Khattar called it a serious issue. “Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) IV restrictions have been implemented as per court directions. Haryana registered 1,118 cases of stubble burning this year (from September 15 to November 18) compared to nearly 9,600 in Punjab. States need to work together to tackle pollution effectively,” he said.

Asked about the Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS) project reaching Karnal, he said the first phase would connect Delhi to Panipat. “The project will eventually be extended to Karnal, for which administrative approval has already been granted. I advocated for this expansion last year, and it will soon benefit Karnal,” he said.

On whether Karnal was part of the NCR, Khattar clarified, “Karnal is already part of the NCR and will get benefits from its inclusion. Discussions are being held to address challenges related to the restrictions imposed.”

Addressing Punjab’s objections to Haryana’s plan for a separate Assembly building, Khattar reiterated the urgent need for a new facility. “Haryana is acquiring land for the Assembly through a land exchange agreement, not for free. If Punjab needs a new building, they have ample land available. Our requirement is urgent as the current facility lacks proper seating for 90 MLAs, and the number may increase to nearly 126 after delimitation,” he said.