As the Indian National Congress gears up for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections, a potential power struggle within the party has come to the forefront. Lok Sabha MP Kumari Selja, a prominent Dalit leader and a contender for the Chief Minister’s post, has fueled speculation regarding the possibility of a Dalit leader heading the government if the Congress wins.
While speaking to the press in Sirsa, Selja, who recently won the Sirsa (reserved) Lok Sabha constituency, expressed her interest in contesting the upcoming Assembly elections. However, she clarified that the final decision on the Chief Minister, including the possibility of a Dalit leader, will be made by the party’s high command.
Selja’s statement has further intensified the perception of a power tussle within the Haryana Congress leadership. Other senior party leaders, including former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Singh Surjewala, and Selja herself, have been conducting separate rallies across the state, fueling speculation about potential conflicts within the party.
Despite the reports of factionalism, the Congress has downplayed these concerns, asserting their unity and preparedness for the elections. With 90 seats in the Assembly, the party’s central election committee is currently working to finalize its candidate list and strategize its campaign.
The upcoming elections in Haryana are crucial for the Congress, and the party’s ability to unite its leadership and present a cohesive front will be essential for its success.