Manohar Lal Khattar blames Mamman Khan for Nuh violence

Former Haryana Chief Minister and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar launched a scathing attack on Congress candidate and former MLA Mamman Khan at a public rally in Ferozpur Jhirka, holding him responsible for the Nuh riots of 2023. Khattar called upon voters to reject Khan to preserve communal harmony in Mewat, which, he claimed, had been torn apart by Khan’s influence.

“He (Mamman Khan) represents communal hatred. He let Mewat burn, the state burn, and still does not deter. His communally charged speeches show his true colours. Nobody can develop in disharmony, and thus you need to defeat him to restore Mewat’s communal fabric,” said Khattar.

Khattar alleged that Mamman Khan had never shown interest in the development of Mewat, but instead had always promoted divisive politics. He labelled Khan as one of the key culprits in the Nuh riots, which left seven people dead in 2023. The former MLA is currently facing trial for allegedly inciting communal violence and has been charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). During this election season, Khan has stirred further controversy by stating that those who wronged the Meos during the violence would be “chased away from Mewat.” His statements have alarmed political opponents, but his strong base of supporters, often referred to as the “Mamman army,” remains steadfast in their loyalty.

While there is significant anti-BJP sentiment in the Ferozpur Jhirka Assembly segment, Khattar’s bold campaign move of directly challenging Khan on his home turf is expected to mobilise Hindu voters and the anti-Mamman faction within the Congress.

In addition to his rally in Ferozpur Jhirka, Khattar also visited Badshahpur, the state’s largest Assembly segment, where he campaigned for BJP candidate Rao Narbir.