Uttar Pradesh Minister Dinesh Khatik Shocks Political Circles: Declares He Won’t Contest from ‘Cursed Land’ Hastinapur Again

Merut: A statement by Uttar Pradesh Minister and Hastinapur MLA Dinesh Khatik has sent shockwaves across the state’s political landscape, creating unease within the BJP and sparking discussions among opposition parties.

On a public platform, in the presence of spiritual leader Acharya Pramod Krishnan, Khatik spoke emotionally, saying that despite being elected twice as MLA and twice serving as a minister, he feels compelled to declare: “I do not wish to contest from Hastinapur, the cursed land, for a third term.” He emphasized that he had never made this declaration publicly before and felt that today was the right time to express it.

The minister also referenced religious texts, including the Bhagavat and Mahapuran, highlighting his deep engagement with scriptures and the Mahabharata, which has strong historical ties to Hastinapur. However, he refrained from disclosing the specific experience that led him to consider the constituency ‘cursed.’

Stir Among Public and Political Circles

Khatik’s statement has triggered intense debate within political corridors and among citizens. As a senior and influential BJP leader, his words cannot be taken lightly, creating a sensitive situation for the ruling party. Opposition parties are interpreting the statement as a reflection of internal unrest within the BJP, raising questions about leadership cohesion and electoral strategy.

The Political Weight of Hastinapur

Hastinapur has long been seen as a politically decisive seat in Uttar Pradesh. Traditionally, it is believed that the party whose candidate wins Hastinapur often forms the state government. Khatik’s public reluctance to contest the seat could therefore have significant implications for upcoming electoral equations.

Expert Opinions

Political analysts suggest that Minister Khatik’s remarks go beyond a personal sentiment and have now become a matter of concern for the BJP, the opposition, and the state’s political dynamics. The coming months will be crucial in observing how the party addresses the statement and what stance Khatik himself takes moving forward.