Party insiders note that the Congress in Haryana is deeply divided, with Bhupinder Singh Hooda exercising significant control over the party, effectively treating it as his personal domain. This internal fragmentation has become apparent amidst recent political developments in the state.
In an unexpected turn of events, three Independent legislators withdrew their support from the Nayab Singh Saini-led government on Tuesday, a move that has further unsettled an already anxious BJP and emboldened the Congress in Haryana. This development has left the ruling government in a precarious position, with the effective majority in the Haryana Assembly reduced to a razor-thin margin.
The withdrawal of support by these Independent legislators has exposed the BJP’s vulnerabilities at a critical juncture, just weeks ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in Haryana and months before the state assembly polls. It highlights the mounting challenges faced by the BJP, including discontent among the farming community and the influential Jat population, exacerbated by perceived anti-farmer policies and the handling of sensitive issues by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party MP Brij Bhushan Singh.
Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s political maneuvering appears to be at the center of this development. His concerted efforts to consolidate power within the Congress and undermine the ruling BJP have been evident, particularly in his push for the candidacy of his loyalists in the upcoming elections.
Despite the apparent gains for the Congress, caution is warranted. While Hooda’s influence has grown, there are concerns within the party about the concentration of power in his hands, marginalizing other senior leaders. This internal rift could potentially weaken the party’s cohesion and effectiveness in the long run. Additionally, the BJP could exploit these divisions to its advantage, especially if the Congress performs poorly in the upcoming elections.
The situation underscores the need for the Congress to tread carefully, recognizing that what may seem like a triumph for Hooda personally may not necessarily translate into broader success for the party. Maintaining unity and addressing internal dissent will be crucial for the Congress to capitalize on the current political climate in Haryana effectively.
