Khaps join govt’s fight against drugs
In a notable shift from their traditionally confrontational stance, several khap panchayats in Haryana have pledged their support to the state government's campaign against drug abuse. This rare alignment signals a turning point in the role of khaps — ancient community institutions often seen as guardians of rigid social customs.
Over the past two decades, khap panchayats have drawn attention for their firm positions on issues such as clan-based marriage restrictions, Hindu Marriage Act amendments, and farmers' agitations. While they have dabbled in social initiatives such as discouraging lavish weddings and promoting women's education, their impact in those areas has been relatively limited.
However, recent developments mark a "watershed moment" in the khap institution's evolution, according to activists. Under the leadership of Tek Ram Kandela — former pradhan of the Kandela Khap and national convener of the Sarv Jatiya Khap Panchayat — khap leaders are actively partnering with the state’s flagship campaign ‘Nasha Mukt Haryana’ (Drug-Free Haryana).
A unique show of solidarity took place during Sant Dhanna Bhagat Jayanti celebrations at the Dharan Khap Chabutra in Uchana, Jind district, where khap leaders honoured Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini by ceremonially tying a pagri — a gesture of high social respect.
Announcing the khaps' involvement, Kandela said, “The anti-drug campaign will kick off with a Cyclothon on April 24, flagged off by the Chief Minister at 6 am from Parshuram Chowk in Jind. Our khap will mobilise youth teams at the village level to spread awareness about drug prevention and rehabilitation.”
Support is growing across the khap network. Members of Nagura Barah Khap and other social organisations have pledged active participation. On Monday, a meeting of the Sarv Jatiya 28 Kandela Khap was held under the leadership of current pradhan Dharampal Kandela, reaffirming the community's commitment to the initiative. The khap also highlighted its past three years of efforts against drug abuse, including submitting memoranda to authorities.
“We welcome the government’s campaign and assure full cooperation,” said Dharampal Kandela, urging widespread community participation. “Youth in rural areas are especially vulnerable, and our collective action can help break this cycle.”
Beyond the drug issue, the khap also discouraged stubble burning due to its environmental impact and welcomed the state government’s decision to name the new medical college in Haibatpur after Sant Shiromani Dhanna Bhagat Ji, fulfilling a long-standing demand.
