Gustakhi Maaf Haryana: Pawan Kumar Bansal
Bhajan Lal: The Defector and Promoter of Corruption with a Human Face
Gustakhi Maaf Haryana: Pawan Kumar Bansal
Bhajan Lal: The Defector and Promoter of Corruption with a Human Face
A Complex Legacy: Bhajan Lal’s Political Journey
Bhajan Lal, the former Chief Minister of Haryana, was often labeled a defector and “promoter of corruption.” Though allegations of corruption against him could never be proved, he was known for his humane and down-to-earth personality. His legacy, however, could not be carried forward by his sons, Kuldeep Bishnoi and Chander Mohan Bishnoi, who struggled to gain the same political foothold. Despite facing opposition from the Jat community, Bhajan Lal made every effort to win their hearts. He appointed Dharmapal Malik as the State Congress President and gave important posts to Jat officers. Known for his soft and friendly nature, Bhajan Lal’s leadership style stood out.
Notable Decisions and ‘Dal-Badlu’ Reputation
During the Asian Games, as Chief Minister, Bhajan Lal ordered the police force to prevent Haryana’s Akalis from traveling to Delhi. Forty-five years ago, he had defected his entire Janata Party government in Haryana into the Congress, earning a reputation for being a master of ‘dal-badlu’ or changing parties. His tenure is often described as a “diamond period” for the bureaucracy, as his approach was based on the belief that “everyone has a price.”
Discretionary Quota and Giving Back
Bhajan Lal was known for using his discretionary quota to benefit others. His OSD, Shiv Raman Gaur, recalls how Bhajan Lal even gave a discretionary quota plot to a lift operator at the Secretariat without any demand. His media OSD, Arun Johar, mentions that Bhajan Lal typically refrained from reacting to critical media stories, saying that it was the journalist’s job to write. Unlike Manohar Lal, Bhajan Lal never threatened anyone with extreme actions, such as sending them “to the moon.”
Legacy of Residential Plots and Generosity
Bhajan Lal’s discretionary quota was widely utilized for the benefit of various individuals. He distributed thousands of residential plots to people in need, including IAS and IPS officers, journalists, and even judges. At an All India Congress Committee session in Surajkund, delegates were treated to halwa made with pure Adampur ghee, leaving them licking their fingers in appreciation.
A Master of Persuasion and Trust in His Staff
Bhajan Lal had a unique ability to persuade his opponents, earning respect even from those who initially disagreed with him. Dr. John V. George, the retired DG of Jails, recalls a time when Bhajan Lal assured him that under political compulsion, he had to transfer him, but promised a post in the district of his choice in the future. Bhajan Lal was known to trust his staff and take responsibility for their actions.
Shiv Raman Gaur, his OSD, recalls an instance when Bhajan Lal had to file an affidavit in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The affidavit explained that his OSD had signed documents with his full consent. Bhajan Lal took full accountability, stating that not only in the particular case in question but in all cases, his OSD signed with his approval.
A Complex Political Figure with a Caring Side
In the end, Bhajan Lal remains a complex figure in Haryana’s political history—known for his political maneuvering, his controversial actions, and his compassionate side, which earned him respect and trust from those who worked with him.