In Haryana, khap panchayats continue to assert their presence in society, despite longstanding criticisms of being ‘orthodox’ and outside constitutional norms. Santosh Dahiya, the first woman head of a khap panchayat in Haryana, defends these organizations, emphasizing their commitment to women’s rights and legal adherence. Santosh Dahiya stated, “It’s wrong to say we don’t follow the laws. Not all laws can cover our traditions and try to protect the tradition.”
Santosh Dahiya, also a teacher at Kurukshetra University, highlights her role as evidence of the khap panchayats’ progressive stance. She recently encountered women facing domestic challenges, underscoring the khap’s responsibility to provide support. “Recently, I met some women who said their husbands were staying with other women. How can we not protect them?” she questioned, illustrating the khap’s involvement in addressing local social issues.
The contextIn Haryana, khap panchayats continue to assert their presence in society, despite longstanding criticisms of being ‘orthodox’ and outside constitutional norms. Santosh Dahiya, the first woman head of a khap panchayat in Haryana, defends these organizations, emphasizing their commitment to women’s rights and legal adherence. Santosh Dahiya stated, “It’s wrong to say we don’t follow the laws. Not all laws can cover our traditions and try to protect the tradition.”
Santosh Dahiya, also a teacher at Kurukshetra University, highlights her role as evidence of the khap panchayats’ progressive stance. She recently encountered women facing domestic challenges, underscoring the khap’s responsibility to provide support. “Recently, I met some women who said their husbands were staying with other women. How can we not protect them?” she questioned, illustrating the khap’s involvement in addressing local social issues.
The context for Santosh Dahiya’s remarks arises from a recent meeting between khap panchayat leaders and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, where they sought assurances against practices such as live-in relationships. With approximately 250 khap panchayats operating in the state, their societal grip remains strong, particularly in rural Haryana, where they can influence a significant portion of the electorate. A study by the Election Commission indicates that khaps can sway around 12% of votes, making their political power critical, especially in a caste-diverse state like Haryana.
Santosh Dahiya, a former badminton player who had to relinquish swimming due to familial restrictions, celebrates the growing recognition of Haryana’s women athletes, particularly wrestlers. When discussing Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, a candidate in the upcoming elections, Dahiya expressed her unwavering support for her.
The political landscape in Haryana cannot overlook the impact of khap panchayats, which continue to be courted by various political parties seeking their endorsement. This election cycle sees one of the most influential khaps fielding their own candidate, Azad Palwa, a prominent farmer leader from Uchana. Palwa’s involvement in the farmers’ movement against controversial agricultural laws positions him as a formidable challenger to JJP chief Dushyant Chautala. His candidacy is aimed at ensuring that khap voices remain influential in the political arena long after the polls conclude.
As Haryana heads towards the 2024 elections, the interplay between traditional khap panchayats and modern political dynamics continues to shape the region’s socio-political landscape. for Santosh Dahiya’s remarks arises from a recent meeting between khap panchayat leaders and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, where they sought assurances against practices such as live-in relationships. With approximately 250 khap panchayats operating in the state, their societal grip remains strong, particularly in rural Haryana, where they can influence a significant portion of the electorate. A study by the Election Commission indicates that khaps can sway around 12% of votes, making their political power critical, especially in a caste-diverse state like Haryana.
Santosh Dahiya, a former badminton player who had to relinquish swimming due to familial restrictions, celebrates the growing recognition of Haryana’s women athletes, particularly wrestlers. When discussing Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, a candidate in the upcoming elections, Dahiya expressed her unwavering support for her.
The political landscape in Haryana cannot overlook the impact of khap panchayats, which continue to be courted by various political parties seeking their endorsement. This election cycle sees one of the most influential khaps fielding their own candidate, Azad Palwa, a prominent farmer leader from Uchana. Palwa’s involvement in the farmers’ movement against controversial agricultural laws positions him as a formidable challenger to JJP chief Dushyant Chautala. His candidacy is aimed at ensuring that khap voices remain influential in the political arena long after the polls conclude.
As Haryana heads towards the 2024 elections, the interplay between traditional khap panchayats and modern political dynamics continues to shape the region’s socio-political landscape.
