Sartorial choice or subtle message? Punjab Congress chief’s new look triggers curiosity, gossip

In politics, optics plays an important role. When Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Raja Waring recently started wearing a turban, it became a point of interest and interpretation in political circles.

At a time when the Punjab leg of Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra is about to enter the state soon, the new dress code has excited many in his party.

Yudhrat, a Sikh by religion, is seen without a turban all these years, but has been sporting a brightly colored turban for the past few days. Waring’s latest Twitter profile picture also shows him with a turban. Although the move has generated discussion, Waring denies any political message. “I have been thinking of tying a turban for a long time. Finally I took the phone while visiting Shaheedi Jor Mela in Fatehgarh Sahib.

Despite his denials, senior party leaders are convinced of the subtle message. “When he took over the reins of the party, he had many detractors. He whipped some of them. Waring wants to appear in control. It also sends a message that who is in command,” commented a leader.

Some party leaders believe that history may be behind the move. While announcing Charanjit Channi as chief minister, senior party leaders such as Ambika Soni had hinted that a Sikh was to become chief minister of Punjab, denting Sunil Jakhar’s prospects. A senior party leader said, “In politics, identity, claim and timing matter.”

Leader of Opposition Pratap Bajwa, however, says that it is not a big deal. “When you follow a particular religion, you should follow every aspect of the religion and wearing a turban is one of them. He is now a senior leader, holding a position of power and wearing a turban also shows his maturity ,” Bajwa said, adding that he had also suggested to the PPCC chief that he should start wearing a turban.

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