Indore (Madhya Pradesh): In his first visit to Indore after being appointed the BJP state president, Hemant Khandelwal said that that the presidency is not a position of pride, but one of deep responsibility. Addressing a large gathering of party workers, Khandelwal said, ‘This is possible only in the BJP — where an ordinary worker can rise to the top. No matter how high the post, the spirit of a karyakarta (worker) must remain.’ ‘The party’s mission is important and not the post,’ he stated.
At a grand party workers' convention, Khandelwal expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm reception he received, saying, ‘The way Indore has welcomed me, I consider it a debt — one I will strive to repay.’ He urged every party worker in Indore to think of themselves as the state president and to take ownership of the party’s mission and discipline.
Khandelwal, who hails from a tribal region, shared that he has spent his life working at the grassroots among tribal communities. ‘I have held several important responsibilities, but have always worked behind the scenes to strengthen the party, rather than seeking media attention. I expect the same dedication from all of you,’ he added.
He also praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying, ‘Under Modi’s leadership, India is on the path to becoming the third global superpower. Our Chief Minister Mohan Yadav is following the same path, ensuring Madhya Pradesh’s development. It's your responsibility to take this work to the people.’
Earlier in the programme, Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav introduced Khandelwal to the gathered party workers and city president Sumit Mishra recalled his humble beginnings — including how Khandelwal once owned a blue two-wheeler that any worker could borrow. ‘He is a man of simplicity and deep commitment,’ Mishra said. The event saw the presence of several senior leaders including Cabinet minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, former Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan, MP Shankar Lalwani, senior leaders Satyanarayan Sattan and Krishna Murari Moghe, among many others.
Don't touch my feet again, says Vijayvargiya
Vijayvargiya addressed Khandelwal emotionally, saying, ‘Hemant's father was like an elder brother to me. Today, I see a reflection of late Kailash Joshi in Hemant — a calm and principled leader.’ Referring to a recent visit to Khajrana Temple where Khandelwal touched his feet, Vijayvargiya added, ‘You swore by the deity, but from today, you must never touch my feet again. You are our leader and we will work under your leadership.’
Chaos at Khajrana Temple during visit
Earlier in the day, Khandelwal visited the famous Khajrana Ganesh Temple to offer prayers for the prosperity and well-being of the people of Madhya Pradesh. However, the visit saw some chaotic moments as enthusiastic party workers crowded around him, leading to jostling and disorderly scenes.
