The Muktsar Arhtiya Association dispute has come into the open. Cabinet Minister Dr Baljit Kaur, MLA from Malout, appointed Manjinder Singh Kaka Urang as president on Friday. On the same issue, Muktsar MLA Jagdeep Singh Kaka Brar announced Jagsir Singh Charna as president at a Muktsar grain market gathering, claiming he was unanimously elected by arhtiyas.
Kaka Urang said he was appointed by Dr Baljit Kaur and accompanied by arhtiyas from Malout. He added, “What can I say if the MLA also appointed Charna? He will have a different style.”
Charna responded, “Arhtiyas from across the district elected me unanimously, and Kaka Brar congratulated me.”
Dr Baljit Kaur told The Tribune that some arhtiyas approached her, and she appointed Kaka Urang. She noted that she had no issues with Kaka Brar. Meanwhile, Kaka Brar said the arhtiyas elected Charna unanimously.
Locals claim the dispute arose because the minister did not consult the MLA, causing objections among some arhtiyas. The Kacha Arhtiya Association links commission agents with district administration but has no formal office.
