North India Statesman
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News India Live, Digital Desk: Hastinpur is not just a map of Uttar Pradesh, but is the name of the glorious history of India and the foundation of ‘Mahabharata’ where the stories of Pandavas and Kauravas are still buried in the soil. But for the last few days, this historical city is being discussed because of a political dispute instead of its antiquity. And at the center of this controversy is the Minister of State of Uttar Pradesh Government. Dinesh Khatik,
In fact, a recent statement by Dinesh Khatik has created a big political storm in the areas of Meerut and Hastinpur. He said something which made it seem that he was considering Hastinpur as ‘cursed’. As soon as this news spread, people got angry and now the minister had to come out in the field to give clarification.
What happened after all?
The talk started with development and local issues. According to reports, Minister Dinesh Khatik, while talking to Hastinpur, had linked it to the backwardness of Hastinpur or a ‘curse’ in some context. The people of Hastinpur consider this city as the center of their faith. In such a situation, a word like “cursed” hit people straight to the heart. The opposition also did not let this opportunity slip away and started cornering the government on the issue of ‘insulting history and culture’.
Minister’s clarification: “My words were distorted”
When the matter escalated and his own ground started slipping, Dinesh Khatik came in front of the media and gave an explanation. He said that his statement has been misrepresented. His intention was not to hurt anyone’s sentiments or to speak ill of Hastinpur.
While giving clarification, he indicated that he was only talking about some old beliefs or obstacles in development, but it was created a ruckus by linking it to religion and curse. Describing himself as a great well-wisher of Hastinpur, he said that he wants the name of this city to shine again in the world.
The tussle between faith and politics
The area of Hastinpur comes under Meerut district and the people here are very emotional about their historical identity. When a person holding a ministerial position publicly makes such a comment about a place, it is not considered to be just a mistake in words. Political experts say that this matter will not stop with just an ‘apology’ or ‘clarification’, but its echoes will be heard in the coming elections also.
The real pride of Hastinpur
The truth is that Hastinpur is not ‘cursed’ but deserves to be ‘educated’ and developed. This mythological city situated on the banks of Ganga has immense potential for tourism and employment. The leaders should work to save the historical heritage there, instead of getting involved in a dispute of words.
Well, the Minister has made his point and has worn the armor of “misinterpretation”. Now how deeply the public takes his clarification, it will become clear in the times to come.
