Sociology-I Research Paper

Social And Political Dynamics of Jats in Western Uttar Pradesh And Haryana

Pranjal Singh
Roll Number 1829

Index

Page Number

Introduction2 Research Methodology3 1. History of Jat Community:

1.1. Anthropogenic History of Jat Clans...............................................................................5 1.2. Medieval and Modern History of Jat Clans.6

2. Social Structure of Jat Society

2.1. What are the Social Norms and the concept of Khap and Khap Panchayats?..7 2.2. Honour Killings and Khap Panchayats Role in them.....7 2.3. Importance of Education and Major fields of Employment...9

3. Political Aspirations And Realities

3.1. Political Scenario in Western Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.10 3.2. Political Aspirations of Jats Today11

Conclusion13 Bibliography14
Annexure 1..15 Annexure 2..17 Annexure 319

Introduction
Jats are a well-known community of people in northern India, inhabiting wide areas ranging from Pakistan, Punjab, Western Uttar Pradesh (U. P.) to Haryana and Rajasthan. Primarily landed farmers, Jats are a hardy lot, famous for their frankness and hardiness. Loyalty and truthfulness are the most common traits associated with a Jat. Jat regiment in the Indian army is a glaring example of their courage and a spirit of self-sacrifice. There is a saying within the community, Consider a Jat dead only thirteen days of his death. Jats are a diverse community. They do not belong to a single religion; Jats may be Hindu, Muslim or Sikh. Yet, there is a remarkably strong feeling of brotherhood within the community. With a population of twelve million,1 Jats are one of the largest communities in India. Jats are one of the most influential communities in the corridors of power. They dominate the political scenario in Punjab and Haryana and are a strong force to be reckoned with in Western U.P. and Rajasthan. From Cutting off the water supply of the national capital, New Delhi, in June, to bravely standing before the Central Reserve Police Force (when Chaudhary Mahendra Singh Tikait was about to be arrested for making derogatory remarks against the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Ms Mayawati.2), Jats are fiercely loyal, yet reckless.

According to 2001 census. Interview with Mr Pankaj Malik on July 20, 2010.

Research Methodology:
Aim: The aim of this research paper is to analyse the social interactions within the Jat Society and the political scenario of Western U.P. and Haryana with respect to Jats. Objective: This Jat society is often criticised for its so-called dictatorial hierarchy of Khap Panchayats and Chaudhary. This system has recently come under fierce criticism due to the infamous honour killings in Haryana and western U.P., where couples were killed for inter-caste marriages and same Gotra Marriages amongst other issues such as lowering of marriageable age amongst girls3. Such incidents have projected an image of Jats as a backward tribal community. Public perception of Jats has been considerably altered by this misrepresentation of a progressive community that has steadily developed itself from an agrarian society to a well organised global syndicate. This research paper would try to bring out This paper examines the origins of this community and tries to gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolutionary trends of Jat traditions. This is achieved by studying the social and political psyche of Jats in order to understand their collective behaviour as a social unit. Research Questions: The questions to be answered by this paper are: 1. Historical issues: a. What are the origins of the Jats? 2. Social issues: a. What are the social norms of Jat society? b. What is the relevance of Khap Panchayat system in the present Day Jat society? c. What is the role of Khap Panchayats in honour killings? d. What is the scenario in Jat community in terms of Education and Employment? 3. Political issues:
3

D. Mahapatra, Will Government act fast to stop Khap Terror?, TIMES OF INDIA, (July 5 2010), Available athttp://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Will-govt-act-fast-to-stop-khap-terror/articleshow/6128240.cms, (July 19, 2010)

a. What is the political Scenario in Western Uttar Pradesh and Haryana? b. What are the major political issues relevant to Jats? c. What the major demands of the Jat Community are in todays world? Hypothesis: 1. Jat Community of Western Uttar Pradesh is not a backward, conservative and completely agrarian. Albeit, Jats are a progressive people with a strong social conscience. Socially, they are quite advanced, although traditionalists, and emphasize strongly on education, especially in girls. 2. Jats are politically very aware and their political behaviour as a community is motivated by their aspirations in todays world. Scope and Limitations: This research paper relies mainly on the views of the eminent Jat leaders and scholars. This is mainly due to the lack of availability of any written material on Jats and their culture. However, there are a few books and articles to which reference may be made. Yet, efforts have been made to keep this paper as neutral in its outlook as possible. Also, the scope of this research paper is confined to Jat people living in the Doab region of Western Uttar Pradesh (Namely Districts of the cow-belt such as Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, Ghaziabad, Bulandshahar, Bijnor, Mathura, and Agra and nearby areas) and Haryana (districts of Haryana primarily focussed on are Panipat, Rohtak, Karnal, Sonipat and Ambala). ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Part I: History of the Jat Community

Part 1.1- Anthropogenic and ancient History of Jat Clans
Although Jat clans claim to have descended from the Hindu God Shivas Locks, the truth is far more complex. One clue to the origins of this community is found in the fact that Jat Mutations responsible for a certain kind of Glaucoma have been found in the Romanian population, hitherto considered to be native inhabitants of Transylvanian region. This mutation was first discovered in Pakistani Jatt families by Manir Ali of Leeds University. The university released a press release last year in this regard: "An international collaboration led by Manir Ali of the Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine, first identified the Jatt mutation in one of four Pakistani families. Further study amongst Roma populations in Europe showed that the same mutation accounted for nearly half of all cases of PCG [Primary congenital glaucoma] in that community. Manir Alis research also confirms the widely accepted view that the Roma originated from the Jatt clan of Northern India and Pakistan and not from Eastern Europe as previously believed."4 Historian James Todd has also corroborated the name Jat with Getae, which were the people inhabiting the regions of Lower Danube around seventh century B. C.5 Jat historian, Thakur Deshraj proposes that the name Jat is a distorted form of Jnaatisangh, a federation formed by Sri Krishna during Mahabharata from Vrishni and Andhak clans.6

Leeds University, Glaucoma, (2009), Available at http://www.leeds.ac.uk/media/press_releases/current09/glaucoma.htm. 5 J. Todd, ANNALS AND ANTIQUITIES OF RAJASTHAN Vol. 1, p. 623, (1972, reprint) 6 Thakur Deshraj, JAT ITIHAS, 96-101, 1992.

Part 1.2- Medieval and Modern History of Jat Clans

Jats do not take the foreground in India for a very long time, although small Jat states did exist in Jangladesh region (Northern Rajasthan and Haryana).7 These clans came into prominence after the major Jat uprising of 1699 in the Mathura Region. The causes of this rebellion are not clear, yet major historians have attributed it to oppressive policies of and religious discrimination by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb 8. Even though the rebellion failed, it left its mark on history. Jat people have been in the limelight ever since and no sooner than the Mughal Empire failed, Jats unleashed their fury upon Western Uttar Pradesh, shaking off the yolk of Mughal Rule.

7 8

J. Todd, ANNALS AND ANTIQUITIES OF RAJASTHAN Vol. 1, (1972, reprint) Thakur Deshraj, JAT ITIHAS, 1992.

Part II: Social structure of Jat Society

Part 2.1: What are the Social Norms and The concept of Khap and Khap Panchayats?
Jats are fervent followers of the Gotra System. A Gotra refers to a sub-caste within a caste. Jats Caste is made up of more than five hundred Gotras. Each Gotra is like a clan, where each member is considered to be an extended family member. Although this system was, until a century ago, extremely strong in all other caste-societies, it has lost its prominence in most communities today. Yet Jats consider it an integral part of their society.9 Each Gotra is headed by a Council of elders called the Gotra Panchayat or Khap Panchayat. The head of this Khap Panchayat is called the Chaudhary. The Khap is a form of social governance which existed long before any formal Government was introduced in the area. Contrary to popular belief, Khaps are not the image of tyranny in Jat society. Recently, Khap Panchayats have also been criticized for authorising Honour Killings. However, these allegations could not be further from the truth. Khap Panchayats, though not strictly benevolent, are instrumental in bringing social reformation in the Jat society. Khap Panchayats take on a lot of social issues such as alcoholism, dowry and widow remarriage. Mr Harendra Malik says, Widow Remarriage is also an important issue where Jats have proven themselves to be more liberal than other communities. It is nowadays a common practice in Western U.P. and Haryana to marry a widow to her husbands brother or another relative. Jat community has also effectively eradicated the tradition of Child-Marriage. In 1956, a Sarva-Khap Panchayat (All Khap-Panchayat congregation), took place at Shorum, near Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh and major steps were taken for social uplifting of Jats. Dowry was prohibited and customary Gifts to be accepted during various ceremonies (Sagaai) were restricted to one Rupee. These rules were strictly followed for many years, but in the past few years, these rules have been increasingly ignored, owing to the loss of regard in peoples minds for the Khap and migration of the people to urban areas.10

Part 2.2: What is the reason of Honour Killings and what is the role of Khap Panchayats in it? 11

This section is compiled from information obtained through interviews with Chaudhary Tejpal Singh, a noted local scholar and a post graduate from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and with Mr. Harendra Malik, one of the most prominent politicians of the Jat community, having been elected to the RajyaSabha in 2003 and to the VidhanSabha of Uttar Pradesh before that, for three consecutive terms. 10 Id. 11 This section is compiled through interviews with Mr. Harendra Malik, Ex-MP RajyaSabha and Ex-MLA of UP Legislative Assembly. This interview was conducted on telephone on July 20, 2010.

During the course of research, the researcher uncovered that in case of same-Gotra marriages and inter-caste marriages Khaps have been made scapegoats by the followers of the pseudo-modernists.12 Although the Khap does oppose these marriages, it has never taken the law into its own hands. No honour killing has actually been committed on the orders of a Khap Chaudhary or its Panchayat. It is actually the families of these boys and girls who resort to murdering their own children, for the sake of their so-called honour. Khap Panchayats have never been involved. Its not like Taliban. They are just your elders... says Mr Harendra Malik, a prominent Jat leader who has been a member of both the Indian parliament and the State Legislative Assembly. He continues I know of a girl in my own village who married in to a same Gotra Family. The (Khap) Panchayat expressed its displeasure but refrained from taking action in the interest of the girls family13He also blames the conflict between the misinterpreted western culture prevalent in the urban areas and the basic Indian culture of the rural hinterlands. A lot of Jats have settled in the cities and live in a different environment. Their children follow the same social norms and act accordingly. Yet these people want them to behave like themselves, in a traditional manner, in order to preserve their social status. This tendency leads them to take such drastic steps against their own children. He also iterates that these views are put forward by people disjointed from Jat society and send out a wrong message. But that is not to say that Khaps are benign towards elopement and same Gotra marriages. These marriages cause strict social action against the couples families, ranging from fines to social boycott. One might question the authority and fairness of the Khap Panchayat on this issue, but in reality, it is not just the Panchayat, it is the whole community that has reached this decision. This point is further proved by the fact that Khap Panchayat does not take any arbitrary steps to ensure the execution of the punishment. The whole community agrees to it. It is a microcosm of democracy. That is what happens in any democratic setup. By agreeing to the laws made by the Indian Parliament, we are essentially following the same system albeit at a larger scale. Mr Pankaj Malik, member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly, and an active member of National Youth Congress, puts forth the same argument more directly, If one is to have complete freedom, then should one marry ones sister? India is known for its culture and family values. I do not say that we should not move forward, but is it wisdom to give up your own culture for a hoax.14 He also insists, Khap panchayats are not murderers. Maximum penalty is maybe social boycott, with a request to leave the village, but that only happens in the most serious cases.15

12 13

Id. Id. 14 Mr Pankaj Malik is an MLA in Uttar Pradesh. He is a young voice of the Jat community. The excerpt given above is a part of the telephonic conversation that took place on July 20, 2010. 15 Id.

On analysing the problem of same-Gotra marriages from a scientific angle an important fact emerges. There is indeed a scientific rationale behind disallowing same Gotra marriages. The Gotra is indeed ones extended family and thus the D. N. A. gene pool is more or less similar. Marrying in your close relative would result in weaker subsequent generations as their gene pool has become narrow. Marrying outside ones Gotra, however, would provide higher Genetic Diversity and a wider Gene Pool and thus stronger progeny.

Part 2.3What is the Importance of Education in Jat Community and What are the Major Fields of employment?
In the past few decades, Jat society has begun to increasingly emphasize on the need of education. From being a primarily Agrarian Community, Jat society is now progressing rapidly in various fields. Engineering and medical are two of the most sought after careers. Every year many young minds find place in various prestigious institutions in India and abroad. Recently Dr Vineet Balyan, from Kakra, Muzaffarnagar (U. P.), was admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciences for a post graduate Course after securing the first rank in the Entrance Examination. He had obtained his graduates degree also from the same institution. Isha Singh, the first ranking candidate the in All India Public medical test for entrance to Indias major medical colleges - also belongs to the Jat community. Education for girls is also a major priority and several girls schools have been instituted in the recent years for this purpose. Even as such, the community has prioritised education for its subsequent generations. Various institutions have been built for this purpose in Western Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. Jan Vidya Inter College in Baraut, near Meerut and Agro College in Bulandshahar are glaring Examples of this spirit. One would indeed be amazed to know how immense has been the contribution of the local khap panchayats in this regard. For instance, CCR Inter College is a charity institution that provides affordable education to economically weak students. This college was started by khap Panchayats collective effort and receives a hefty donation every year from these Khap Panchayats.16

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Given Facts were provided by Mr. Tejpal Singh, in course of the telephonic conversation that took place on July 20, 2010.

Part III: Political Aspirations and Realities

Part 3.1: What is the Political Scenario in Western Uttar Pradesh and Haryana?
Politics for Jats is centred on agriculture. Having been a mostly agriculture dependent community, crop prices is always the first issue in their mind. Sugarcane prices related disputes in Western UP have often led to a political debacle. Despite all this, Jats in western U.P. are not an organised caste electorate. However, Jat vote is extremely important for any major party to sweep the region. In the 70s, Jats occupied a prominent position on the countrys political Stage. Some major politicians of that period were: Virendra Verma: Mr Virendra Verma was an eminent Jat personality. He was the Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation in Uttar Pradesh Government in 1970s. He was also the Home minister with the Uttar Pradesh Government in 1971. Later on he became the governor of Himachal Pradesh in 1991-92.17 Chaudhary Charan Singh: Considered by many to be the most important and well distinguished Jat leader of all times, Chaudhary Sahib, as he was known, was twice elected to the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. When the Janata party government came to power in 1977, he was appointed the home minister of India. He was also the Prime Minister of the country for a short time in 1979. He is worshipped by the Jat community, revered next only to Mahatma Gandhi. It is, however, curious to note that his infamous role in toppling the Janata Government has been conveniently forgotten by the Jats.18 Chaudhary Bansilal: He was the chief-minister of Haryana for three separate terms 1968-75, 1985-87, and 1996-99. Many historians call him the architect of Modern Haryana. He also served as defence Minister in Indira Gandhi government in 1975.19 Chaudhary Devilal: He was a freedom fighter and played a decisive role in formation of Haryana as a separate state. He was elected on Janata party Ticket in 1977 and went on to become the chief-minister of Haryana. He is also referred to as Shaan-EHaryana, for his strong views against emergency and authoritarian rule. He also served as deputy Prime Minister in V. P. Singh Government.20

17 18

Id. Chaudhary Charan Singh, MAPSOFINDIA.COM, available at http://www.mapsofindia.com/who-iswho/government-politics/choudhary-charan-singh.html, (visited on July 22, 2010). 19 CHAUDHARY BANSI LAL JATLAND WIKI, available at, www.jatland.com/home/Chaudhary_Bansi_Lal, (visited on July 22, 2010). 20 Ch. Devilal tau Famous People, available at, http://www.haryana-online.com/people/devilal.htm, (visited on July 23, 2010).

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Even today major Jat leaders impact the political stage in western U.P. and Haryana. Mr Ajit Singh, Chaudhary Mahendra Singh Tikait and Om Prakash Chautala are one of the most prominent Jat leaders today. However, the thinking of the Jat community has substantially changed over the years. Rapid spread of education and awareness has altered the views of the community drastically over the past few years. No longer do Jats look for their own candidates. Mr Pankaj Malik puts it in this way, Till a few years back, Chaudhary Charan Singh was iconic to the whole Jat society but today trends have changed. Jats have grown out of the towering memories of Chaudhary Sahib and rising trends in education have washed away caste politics in most areas. What concerns them, however, is sugar cane prices as sugarcane is the major crop in the area.21 Agriculture related issues have been voiced quite vehemently by Jat leaders like Chaudhary Mahendra Singh Tikait, supremo of Bharatiya Kisan Union (Indian Farmers union). Jat voters from Western Uttar Pradesh have in 2009 elections shown that caste politics is not an option anymore for leaders. Many leaders belonging to other communities found favour with the Jats on account of their authenticity. 22 In Haryana too, Jats are the most important electorate. Jat support is essential to stay in power. Also, in Haryana, Jats are a much more organised political force. The whole community decides whom to support even before the elections through khap panchayats.

Part 3.2: What Are the Political Aspirations of Jats in Todays Scenario?
Dr Pankaj Singh, a prominent member in the community and a prominent physician in Muzaffarnagar, views the most important problem of Jats to be pricing of sugarcane. Mills are not paying the adequate amount; it seems that they are hell-bent upon harming the farmers interests. During the harvest season, farmers are ready to work day and night to reap the harvest and get it to the mills in time. Yet, the owners pay them a meagre rate. I can see the falling number of patients in harvest season. They are ready to even risk their health.23 Over the past few years, a lot of sugar mills have witnessed massive protests from farmers, primarily Jats, and every time they are appeased with a token rise in prices. A lot of farmers in bordering areas of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana often resort to selling their produce in Haryana, as prices often go higher there. Even Uttarakhand is a sought after market as high prices are given by the government. Another important issue has been reservation for Jats in Central Universities and institutions. Hitherto, Jats have been classified under Other Backward Classes in Uttar
21 22

Excerpt from an interview with Mr. Pankaj Malik conducted on July 20, 2010. Compiled from the information and facts provided by Mr. Pankaj Malik and Mr. Tejpal Singh during interviews conducted on July 20, 2010. 23 Excerpt from an interview with Dr. Pankaj Singh conducted on July 21, 2010.

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Pradesh and Rajasthan. But for a long time they have been demanding reservation from the central government. Recently, a Jat Aarakshan Samiti has been formed with Mr Yashpal Malik as its president. It took some drastic steps when it blocked the water supply to Delhis Sonia Vihar water treatment plant. This led to a major water crisis in Delhi24. Although major leaders of the community kept their distance from this debacle, it managed to make a point by bringing the National Capital to its knees. Mr Pankaj Malik also explains, The Congress had organised a massive rally in Western Uttar Pradesh to bring this issue [of reservation] to the centre stage. Its just that we dont agree with adopting any unconstitutional measures to meet our demands.25 Another major issue in Western Uttar Pradesh is formation of Harit Pradesh. The issue was raised by Jat stalwart Chaudhary Ajit Singh. The proposed state would include twenty two districts of western Uttar Pradesh. The primary reason sighted for this demand is the fact that western Uttar Pradesh is the most important beneficiary of green revolution and at the grass root level it resembles Punjab and Haryana more than Easter Uttar Pradesh. Also, it has been felt that western U.P. has been neglected by the Lucknow based administration. This demand received impetus after Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Uttarakhand were carved out as separate states in the year 2000.26 This demand received favour from the Chief Minister of Haryana, Mr O.P. Chautala in 2001. His motives were, however, questioned by the political analysts, seeing it as a political move to gain a foothold in Uttar Pradesh.27 The issue has been recently revived by Ajit Singh in the wake of Telangana issue. Yet not everyone is ready to come into the fray. Mr Pankaj Malik, MLA of congress party from Baghra constituency in Muzaffarnagar district, says It is just a political propaganda of Lok Dal and Mr Ajit Singh. It is not an issue connected with the common man. I represent the people of my constituency. Why should I concentrate on issues irrelevant to them? I would rather spend my time in finding solutions to their immediate problems, like irrigation and subsidies.28

24

MasoodUl Hassan, CM supports Jats' OBC demand, THE HINDUSTAN TIMES, (June 14, 2010), available at http://www.hindustantimes.com/CM-supports-Jats-OBC-demand/Article1-557653.aspx, (Last visited on July 25, 2010. 25 Excerpt from an interview with Mr. Pankaj Malik conducted on July 20, 2010. 26 Jag pal Singh, POLITICS OF HARIT PRADESH: THE CASE OF WESTERN UP AS A SEPARATE STATE, 36(31), ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL WEEKLY, 2961-2967. 27 Bijendra Ahlawat, INLD bid to get foothold in UP, THE TRIBUNE, (Chandigarh Edn., July 5, 2001). 28 Annexure III

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Conclusion
After looking at the Jat community from an unconventional perspective, this research paper concludes that the Jat community in Western Uttar Pradesh and Haryana is not as primitive or conservative as generally perceived. Although quite a few traditionalistic elements do exist in this society, the general trends in the social development of the society are positive. The community, though no longer agrarian, is very well organised as a large family that lives in the spirit of brotherhood. Khap Panchayats role in the running of the society has also been analysed by this paper and it is felt that these panchayats are not as tyrannical as was hitherto believed. These are in fact administrative and social bodies that regulate the society in a most positive spirit. These panchayats have borne the onus of honour killings primarily due to their stern outlook and prejudices of the media, which interprets these actions of the families to be the result of the pressure built by the society vis--vis khap panchayats. It is necessary, therefore, to recognise Jats as a progressive community with an honest outlook. They are no longer to be considered illiterate masses. Their political aspirations are finally affecting the corridors of power in India. Also, one should also look at the rising levels of literacy and education within the Jat community. This is a clear indicator of social and material progress of this relatively unknown community that has often faced flak for its strong views. Thus, it is concluded that Jats today need to be revisited with a neutral approach. Only then, will a new insight into this community be possible.

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Bibliography:
Books
James Todd, ANNALS AND ANTIQUITIES OF RAJASTHAN VOL. 1, (1972). Thakur Deshraj, JAT ITIHAS, (1992)

Articles
MasoodUl Hassan, CM supports Jats' OBC demand, THE HINDUSTAN TIMES, (June 14, 2010), available at http://www.hindustantimes.com/CM-supports-Jats-OBC-demand/Article1557653.aspx D. Mahapatra, Will Government act fast to stop Khap Terror?, TIMES OF INDIA, (July 5 2010), Available at http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Will-govt-act-fast-to-stopkhap-terror/articleshow/6128240.cms Chaudhary Bansi Lal Jatland Wiki, available at,

www.jatland.com/home/Chaudhary_Bansi_Lal, (visited on July 22, 2010) Bijendra Ahlawat, INLD bid to get foothold in UP, The Tribune, (Chandigarh Edn., July 5, 2001). Jag pal Singh, Politics of Harit Pradesh: The Case of Western UP as a Separate State, 36(31), ECONOMIC and Political Weekly, 2961-2967. Chaudhary Charan Singh, MAPSOFINDIA.COM , available at

http://www.mapsofindia.com/who-is-who/government-politics/choudhary-charansingh.html Ch. Devilal tau Famous People, available at, http://www.haryanaonline.com/people/devilal.htm Leeds University, Glaucoma, (2009), Available at

http://www.leeds.ac.uk/media/press_releases/current09/glaucoma.htm

Telephonic Interviews with the following:

Mr Harendra Malik, Ex-M.P., Ex-MLA in Uttar Pradesh.

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Mr Pankaj Malik, Member of the Legislative Assembly from Congress Party in Uttar Pradesh.

Mr Tejpal Singh; Noted Scholar in the Jat Community, Post Graduate from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. Dr. Pankaj Singh, eminent personality in the Jat society in Muzaffarnagar, also a prominent Physician.

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Annexure I
Following is an excerpt from the interview of Mr Harendra Malik, conducted over telephone on July 20, 2010. Mr Malik is an eminent Jat leader. He is also an Ex-M. P. of Rajya Sabha and Ex-MLA of Uttar Pradesh. Q: What is Khap? What is the social significance of Khaps in the Jat community? Ans: Khaps are sub cast within the Jat caste. They are like extended families. All members belonging to a Gotra or khap have descended from the same forefathers. Like all Balyans, all Karnwals, all Maliks are separate large clan-families. Every Khap has a council of elders called the Khap Panchayat. Khap Panchayat has a headman called Chaudhary of the Khap. Khap Panchayats are revered in the khap and in the Jat community on the whole. They are your elders and keepers of the morality of the society. Khap Panchayat also issues directives to the people of the Khap such as not to drink, abolish dowry etc. Widow Remarriage is also an important issue where Jats have proven themselves to be more liberal than other communities. Q: What is the role of Khap Panchayats in Honour Killings? What is the reason for such staunch opposition against same-Gotra Marriages? Ans: Honour Killings occurs in all communities. Jats have been branded for it. People, who publicly blame Khap Panchayats in the matter, are actually misleading the outsiders to develop a wrong view against the Jats. It is actually the families of these boys and girls who resort to murdering their own children, for the sake of their so-called Honour. Khap Panchayats have never been involved. Its not like Taliban. They are just your elders. This is not to imply that panchayats do nothing at all. Action might range from fine to social boycott, but these measures are taken under exceptional circumstances. I know of a girl in my own village who married in to a same Gotra Family. The (Khap) Panchayat expressed its displeasure but refrained from taking action in the interest of the girls family. Same Gotra Marriages have been opposed because a girl or a boy of your own Gotra is your sibling. Do you marry your Sister? But khap also says dont drink, dont smoke or dont gamble. Does anyone listen? Q: What is the primary reason of this sudden rise in the frequency of these so-called Honour Killings? Why do families kill their own children? Ans: The major culprit is Refugee Culture. Children are looking for freedom and new values, forsaking their own traditions in the process. At the same time a lot of Jats have settled in the cities and live in a different environment. Their children follow the same social norms and act accordingly. Yet these people want them to behave like themselves, in a traditional
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manner, in order to preserve their social status. This tendency leads them to take such drastic steps against their own children. Q: What are the major aims of Khap Panchayats in India? Ans: Khap panchayats have always strived to achieve a society free from social evils. Sati system has been abolished in Jats since times immemorial. Khap Panchayats have always issued directives to the people of the Khap like abstinence etc. Do you know that Jats are one of the greatest supporters of Widow Remarriage? In our society a widow is entitled to the same respect that she was given when her husband was alive. Yes, there are cases when the in-laws turn bitter towards the widow, but she can always seek the help of panchayats.

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Annexure II
Following is an excerpt from an interview of Mr Pankaj Malik, conducted on June 20, 2010 over telephone. Mr Pankaj Malik is a member of the Legislative Assembly of Uttar Pradesh from Congress party. He is an active member of Indian Youth congress. He is also a face of Jat Youth. Q: What is basic political issue among Jats? Ans: Jat Politics is based on Agriculture. This is the first and the last topic. More specifically, the sugarcane prices are a major issue. Many governments have wooed the Jat voters by announcing a token rise in sugarcane prices but nothing substantial has been done. Q: On what basis do Jats vote in elections? How does their vote impact the outcome of legislative processes? Ans: Till a few years back, Chaudhary Charan Singh was iconic to the whole Jat society but today trends have changed. Jats have grown out of the towering memories of Chaudhary Sahib and rising trends in education have washed away caste politics in most areas. What concerns them, however, is sugar cane prices as sugarcane is the major crop in the area. Jat voter today is highly aware of the political realities and is not easily swayed by sweet speeches. If Jats had only voted for Jats then they might not have voted for me as I stood against Jat stalwarts and a major chunk of Jat political activists were not with me. Jats do not ignore the right candidate. Jat vote is pivotal for a victory in Western U. P. However, here it is scattered, but in Haryana Jats act as united Electorate. Before elections huge panchayats are organised and the community decides for whom to vote. Q: What has caused this shift in voting patterns? Ans: In my opinion, Education is the major reason. Jat society is no longer an agrarian society. It values education and social reform. This education has resulted in people understanding the value of their vote. Q: What is the major political aspiration of Jats in todays world? Ans: Most importantly, Jats want reservation in the Central Institutions. They have reservation in various states Like U.P. and Rajasthan under OBC category, but for a long time they have sought the same status at the centre. The Congress had organised a massive rally in Western Uttar Pradesh to bring this issue to the centre stage. Its just that we dont agree with adopting any unconstitutional measures to meet our demands. We do not agree with
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hampering the water supply of cities. In such a case, only the common man suffers. Nothing happens to the government. Q: Recently, there has been a demand for western U.P. to be separated from the rest to form Harit Pradesh. Do you support this demand? Ans: Having a separate state is not as feasible as it sounds. Right now, Uttar Pradesh is very well organised. Administration needs an efficient government. Harit Pradesh is just a political propaganda of Lok Dal and Mr Ajit Singh. It is not an issue connected with the common man. I represent the people of my constituency. Why should I concentrate on issues irrelevant to them? I would rather spend my time in finding solutions to their immediate problems, like irrigation and subsidies. Q: On the social issues in Jat Society, such as Honour Killings and Khap Panchayats autonomous decision, what is you view? Ans: Khap Panchayats are not murderers. Maximum penalty is maybe social boycott, with a request to leave the village, but that only happens in the most serious cases. These killings are isolated cases that occur within families. They are not to be seen as the representation of the entire communitys views. However, I am against same-Gotra marriages. If one is to have complete freedom, then should one marry ones sister? India is known for its culture and family values. I do not say that we should not move forward, but is it wisdom to give up your own culture for a hoax. There is also a scientific reason for it. Genetic diversity of a species is destroyed if the previous generation had both parents with similar genes.

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Annexure III
Q: Could you acquaint us with the origins of Jat community? Ans: The origins of Jats are obscure. Some scholars have claimed that Jats were originally inhabitants of Afghanistan and came with Alexander the Great to India. There are records of Jat States existing in Jangladesh region, which is the area of northern Rajasthan and South Western Punjab, as has been documented by Colonel Todd in his book, Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan-vol. 1. Some Gotras then converted Islam and Sikhism over time. Also, recently, there was a research conducted by Leeds University on the genetic relation between Romanian natives and Pakistani Jats. A similar mutation was found and it was inferred that the two peoples were related. Q: What are the major economic activities and employments for Jats? Ans: Jat society is primarily agrarian. Some have taken to the transport business too. In recent years, a lot of children have been admitted to prestigious institutions across the country for higher education, like AIIMS and IITs. In fact one of the boys from village Kakra in Muzaffarnagar, Vineet Balyan secured admission to the AIIMs for an MBBS degree with a prestigious rank some years ago and now he has secured top rank in Post graduate Entrance for the same institute. The topper of the CPMT in 2010, Isha Singh is another gem of our community. Q: What is your view on social structure of the Jat society? What in your opinion is the relevance of Khap Panchayats in this society? Ans: Jats are divided into Khaps or Gotras. Every member of a Gotra is like your sibling or aunt or grand aunt-uncle, and so on. Thus they are one big family. Khap panchayats are the governing bodies of their respective Khaps. They are older than our constitution. They governed us for centuries before Lex Loci was even conceptualized. Social Issues are settled at the Khap Panchayat. In fact various social evils have been tackled by Khap Panchayats. Dowry, alcoholism and Widow Remarriage have been some recent ones. Sati System was also heavily discouraged many decades ago and it is virtually inexistent in Jat Society. Girls Education is also favoured strongly. Several Institutions like Jan Vidya Inter College in Baraut and Agricultural Science College in Bulandshahar have been landmark institutions established as part of the communitys efforts to spread literacy. Even Chaudhary Chhotu Ram College in Muzaffarnagar is a charity institution established by the community.

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In 1956 a Sarva-Khap Panchayat was organised at Shorum in Muzaffarnagar. It took on major social issues and took strong decisions. Dowry was prohibited and Bhaat, which is a custom in which relatives contribute to the wedding, was limited Re. 1. These rules were strictly followed for many years, but in the past few years, these rules have been increasingly ignored, owing to the loss of regard in peoples minds for the Khap and migration of the people to urban areas. Q: What is Khap Panchayats role in Honour Killings and prohibiting same Gotra marriages? Ans: Honour Killings are done by families. They wish to preserve their so-called honour, despite living in a completely different society as in case of urban Jat families. This leads them to commit such atrocities. However, Khap Panchayat is against Same-Gotra Marriages. It is like siblings marrying. Is that acceptable? Q: Please elaborate on the political aspirations of the Jats. Ans: Jats have been given reservation in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan under OBC category. Now, they wish for the same at the centre. Reservations have helped Jats progress in the state and reservations at the centre would provide strong impetus to this growth. For this purpose, Jat Aarakshan Samiti has been formed. This year in July Jats cut the water supply of Delhi plunging it into a major crisis. However, this in my opinion is not the right way to protest. There has also been a demand for separate Harit Pradesh. But this is a dormant idea, often used for political gain before elections. Q: Please tell us about some Jat leaders in the history of India? Ans: Virendra Verma, Chaudhary Charan Singh, Chaudhary Bansilal, Chaudhary Devilal were major Jat leaders of free India. I will not elaborate about them as there is enough on the internet about them. Right now Chaudhary Mahendra Singh Tikait and Ajit Singh are notable leaders. In fact Chaudhary Sahib (Chaudhary Charan Singh) was also the Prime Minister of India.

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