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Ram Chander Jangra, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament (MP) representing Haryana in the Rajya Sabha, has ignited a significant controversy with his insensitive remarks concerning the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. Jangra's comments, made during an event commemorating the 300th birth anniversary of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar in Bhiwani, have drawn widespread condemnation from various quarters, including opposition parties, social activists, and the general public. He stated that the women who lost their husbands in the Pahalgam attack “lacked” the spirit of “warrior women” and should have put up a fight against the terrorists. This statement, perceived as deeply disrespectful and victim-blaming, has fueled outrage and demands for an apology and possible disciplinary action from the BJP leadership. His words – "Wahan par jo hamari veerangnayein behane thee, jinki maang ka sindoor chheen liya gaya, veerangna ka bhaav nahin tha, josh nahin tha, jazba nahin tha, dil nahin tha, isliye haath jod ke goli ka shikaar ho gaye. Lekin haath jodne se koi chhodta nahin. Hamare aadmi vahan par haath jodkar maare gaye (Our sisters who lost their husbands in the attack did not have the warrior spirit or the resolve and vigour to fight back. Therefore, they became victims. Terrorists do not spare those who request with folded hands. Our men died with folded hands)" – have been widely circulated and interpreted as a callous disregard for the trauma experienced by the bereaved and a gross misunderstanding of the realities of facing armed terrorists. The ensuing backlash highlights the sensitivity surrounding issues of terrorism, national security, and the representation of women in public discourse. Jangra’s comments tap into a complex web of cultural expectations and societal pressures placed on women, particularly within the context of widowhood and national identity. The idea that women should embody a "warrior spirit" in the face of such extreme violence is not only unrealistic but also ignores the diverse ways individuals cope with trauma and loss. Furthermore, it perpetuates the harmful stereotype that victims are somehow responsible for their own victimization. The political ramifications of Jangra's statement are considerable. It comes at a time when the BJP is actively seeking to consolidate its support base and project an image of strong leadership and national unity. Such insensitive remarks can undermine these efforts and alienate potential voters, particularly women and marginalized communities. Opposition parties are likely to seize upon this controversy to criticize the BJP's handling of sensitive issues and to portray the party as out of touch with the concerns of ordinary citizens. The incident also raises questions about the vetting process for public figures and the importance of ensuring that elected officials are equipped with the communication skills and cultural sensitivity necessary to navigate complex social and political landscapes. The demand for accountability extends beyond Jangra himself. Critics are calling on the BJP leadership to publicly condemn his remarks and to take concrete steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. This could involve implementing stricter guidelines for public communication, providing sensitivity training for elected officials, and promoting a more inclusive and respectful political culture within the party.
This is not the first time Ram Chander Jangra has found himself embroiled in controversy. His past statements have often been characterized by a lack of tact and a tendency to make unsubstantiated claims. For example, in December of the previous year, he alleged that a staggering 700 girls had disappeared during the 2020-21 farmers’ agitation on the Delhi border, attributing this alleged phenomenon to “drug addicts from Punjab.” While he later clarified that he was merely recounting what he had heard through gossip, the initial statement caused significant outrage and raised serious questions about his judgment and his commitment to responsible public discourse. Such instances of reckless speculation can have damaging consequences, contributing to the spread of misinformation and inciting social unrest. The tendency to blame specific communities or groups for societal problems is particularly concerning, as it can fuel prejudice and discrimination. In the case of the farmers’ agitation, Jangra’s unsubstantiated claim risked undermining the legitimacy of the protest and diverting attention from the genuine grievances of the farmers. Furthermore, his linking of the alleged disappearances to “drug addicts from Punjab” perpetuated harmful stereotypes and contributed to the demonization of a particular region. Beyond his controversial statements, Jangra’s political career has been marked by a series of electoral defeats. He has contested numerous elections at the state level, representing various political parties, but has consistently failed to secure a seat. This track record raises questions about his electability and his ability to effectively represent the interests of his constituents. Despite his electoral setbacks, Jangra has managed to maintain a prominent position within the BJP, owing in part to his proximity to influential figures such as Union Minister and former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. His appointment to head the welfare board for the state’s Backward Classes and economically weaker sections in 2015 demonstrates the party’s confidence in his ability to serve as a representative of these communities. However, his controversial statements have cast a shadow over his role and raised doubts about his suitability for such a position. The question of whether Jangra’s actions reflect a broader pattern of insensitivity within the BJP remains a subject of debate. Critics argue that his remarks are symptomatic of a broader trend of divisive rhetoric and victim-blaming that has become increasingly prevalent in Indian politics. Supporters, on the other hand, contend that his statements are isolated incidents and should not be used to generalize about the entire party.
Ram Chander Jangra's political trajectory is a testament to persistence, despite facing numerous electoral setbacks. Born into a farming family in Meham, Rohtak, on May 8, 1950, Jangra's initial foray into politics began with the Lok Dal (Bahuguna), where he unsuccessfully contested the Assembly election from Safidon in 1987. He continued his pursuit of political office, contesting from Meham in 1991 on a ticket of the Bansi Lal-led Haryana Vikas Party (HVP) and again from Karnal in 2004. However, his efforts were consistently met with defeat. The HVP's eventual merger with the Congress prompted Jangra to transition to the BJP. Despite lacking initial electoral success within the BJP, he was appointed the state president of the party’s OBC wing and received an Assembly poll ticket again in 2014, when he was fielded from Gohana. This attempt, too, ended in defeat. Despite these repeated failures, Jangra remained determined to secure a position in public office. In 2019, he was once again considered for the Gohana ticket, but the party ultimately chose Tirath Rana. Rana's subsequent defeat allowed the Congress's Jagbir Malik to retain the seat. However, Jangra's persistence and loyalty to the BJP were eventually rewarded in 2020, when the party nominated him to the Rajya Sabha. Following the announcement of his nomination, Jangra described himself as a “true soldier of the party,” emphasizing his dedication and commitment to fulfilling his duties. In the Upper House, Jangra has maintained a high attendance record, exceeding 98%, and has actively participated in over 115 debates. He has also asked 37 questions, including one on the “role of women in advancing the goal of Viksit Bharat.” His membership in various committees, including the Committee on Housing and Urban Affairs and the Consultant Committee for Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, further highlights his active engagement in parliamentary affairs. The controversy surrounding Jangra's recent comments on the Pahalgam attack victims underscores the importance of responsible and sensitive communication by public figures. His remarks have not only drawn criticism for their insensitivity but also raise questions about the judgment and cultural awareness of elected officials. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential for political rhetoric to cause harm and the need for greater accountability and sensitivity in public discourse. It remains to be seen what impact this controversy will have on Jangra's political future and on the BJP's broader efforts to connect with voters.