Chautalas and Badals: A 50-Year Political and Personal Bond Cemented by Legacy and Mutual Respect
The political saga of the Chautalas from Haryana and the Badals of Punjab has been one of enduring ties that have lasted more than five decades. From their initial alliance during the 1974 Rori bypolls to their enduring camaraderie amidst political divergences, the bond between the two families has been both personal and political, transcending regional boundaries and party affiliations.
The relationship between these two key political dynasties is deeply rooted in history, forged during a time of political upheaval and reinforced by shared struggles and mutual respect. It continues to stand strong even as both families navigate new political terrains.
Origins of the Chautala-Badal Alliance
The bond between Haryana’s Chautala family, led by former Chief Minister Om Prakash Chautala, and the Badal family of Punjab, headed by the late Parkash Singh Badal, dates back to the period of Devi Lal, the founder of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) in Haryana. While the political collaboration between the two families solidified in the 1970s, their personal ties run even deeper, with connections forged over years of mutual support.
Devi Lal, a prominent figure in Haryana’s political history, had a special relationship with Parkash Singh Badal, who led the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) in Punjab. Their alliance was instrumental in shaping regional politics. Despite facing political challenges, including the eventual split between the INLD and the SAD in 2016 over the controversial Satluj Yamuna Link (SYL) canal issue, the personal ties between the families have remained intact.
Political Synergy: From 1974 Bypolls to Modern-Day Collaboration
One of the most pivotal moments in cementing the Chautala-Badal relationship came during the 1974 Rori by-election in Haryana. Aditya Devi Lal, the grandson of Devi Lal, recalls how Parkash Singh Badal played a key role in convincing Devi Lal to contest the elections, despite his initial reluctance. “Badal sahab sent his younger brother Gurdas to meet Devi Lal, who was focused on farming at the time. He offered him not just support, but a car and funds to run the campaign,” Aditya recalls. This pivotal moment led to Devi Lal’s victory, despite fierce competition and opposition from Congress leaders, including Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
This victory was a testament to the strength of the Chautala-Badal partnership. It also laid the foundation for their continued collaboration in the years that followed.
The Personal Bond: A Symbol of Brotherhood
Though the political landscape has shifted over the years, the personal ties between the Chautalas and Badals have remained steadfast. After the death of Devi Lal in 2001, Parkash Singh Badal honored his legacy by erecting a statue of Devi Lal at Killianwali village, located on the Punjab-Haryana border. When Parkash Singh Badal passed away in 2023, the Chautalas reciprocated the gesture by installing a life-sized statue of Badal alongside that of Devi Lal, underscoring the enduring brotherhood between the two families. Dushyant Chautala, the grandson of Devi Lal, referred to Parkash Badal as their “family head,” further emphasizing the deep respect and admiration shared between the families.
Political Divergence: A Changing Landscape
Despite the longstanding friendship, the political landscape saw changes in the form of a split between the INLD and SAD in 2016 over the SYL canal dispute. While the political rift over water-sharing issues became a point of contention, it never fractured the personal relationship between the Chautalas and the Badals. The bond has survived party splits, with members of both families continuing to attend each other’s social and political events.
Even as the INLD saw internal divisions in 2018 with the formation of the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) led by Dushyant Chautala, the ties with the Badal family remained strong. In 2014, when Dushyant contested the Hisar Lok Sabha seat, Parkash Singh Badal’s presence at an INLD rally was credited with giving Dushyant a significant boost. Badal’s support was seen as a strategic move, offering a potential alliance between the INLD and the BJP, a factor that influenced Dushyant’s success.
A Shared Commitment to Farmers’ Rights
Both the Chautalas and the Badals have long been champions of farmers’ rights, a cause that has brought them closer over the years. Om Prakash Chautala, who passed away in November 2023, dedicated much of his political career to advocating for the rights of farmers. This shared focus on rural welfare and agriculture has been a key area of alignment for the two families. In his condolences, Sukhbir Singh Badal, the son of Parkash Badal, referred to the passing of Om Prakash Chautala as a personal loss and acknowledged his lifelong commitment to the cause of farmers.
Even in the face of political challenges and party conflicts, the Chautalas and Badals have found common ground in their dedication to improving the lives of farmers in their respective states.
A Legacy of Collaboration and Respect
The legacy of collaboration and mutual respect between the Chautalas and Badals is a powerful example of how political alliances can transcend party politics and evolve into lasting personal relationships. As the Chautala family mourns the loss of Om Prakash Chautala, the Badal family continues to honor the deep-rooted ties that have shaped their political journey.
Both families, now in a phase of transition, carry forward the shared commitment to the people of Haryana and Punjab, with the hope that their longstanding bond will continue to guide future generations.