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Gulab Chand Kataria, a seasoned politician from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been appointed as the new Governor of Punjab. This appointment comes as part of a larger reshuffle of Governors across India, announced by President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday night. Kataria, 79, replaces Banwarilal Purohit, who has held the post since 2017.
Kataria's political journey is deeply intertwined with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization that plays a significant role in shaping the BJP's ideology. He has been a prominent figure in the BJP's Rajasthan unit for over four decades, holding considerable influence in the Mewar-Wagad region in the south of the state.
His political career began in 1977 when he was first elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Udaipur on a Janata Party ticket. He was subsequently re-elected as a BJP candidate in 1980. Kataria's political prowess is evident in his eight-time victory as an MLA from Udaipur. He also represented the constituency in the Lok Sabha in 1989. His long tenure in the Rajasthan Assembly, coupled with his successful run as an MP, showcases his political acumen and ability to connect with the electorate.
Beyond his legislative experience, Kataria has held ministerial positions in the Rajasthan government. He served as the Home Minister of Rajasthan, a crucial portfolio responsible for law and order and internal security. He was also the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajasthan Assembly, demonstrating his strategic and leadership skills in the opposition's role of holding the government accountable.
While his political career has been marked by success, Kataria has also faced controversies. He was embroiled in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh encounter killing case, investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The case centered around the alleged extrajudicial killing of Sohrabuddin, a suspected gangster, and his wife Kausar Bi. Kataria, who was the Home Minister of Rajasthan at the time, was accused of being part of the conspiracy to eliminate Sohrabuddin. However, the court acquitted him, finding the evidence against him insufficient. The case remains a significant point of contention, with allegations of political motives and misuse of power.
Kataria's appointment as the Governor of Punjab signifies a new chapter in his political journey. He brings with him a wealth of experience, a strong ideological foundation, and a proven track record of leadership. His time as Governor will be a test of his ability to navigate the complex political landscape of Punjab, a state with a rich history and diverse socio-political dynamics.