Kumari Selja to Join Congress Campaign Amidst Infighting Allegations in Haryana

Chandigarh: Kumari Selja, an influential figure within the Indian National Congress and the current Member of Parliament for Sirsa, is set to actively participate in the Congress’s campaigning efforts in Haryana starting September 26, 2024. Her decision comes amidst reports of internal conflicts within the party and claims from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) about growing discord among senior Congress members.

Selja, who was previously considered sidelined by the faction associated with Bhupinder Singh Hooda, recently met with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi. According to sources within the party, the meeting involved discussions on several grievances that she and other senior leaders had over being excluded from key party decisions, including the formulation of the party manifesto and candidate selection processes.

Addressing these issues, Kumari Selja stated to The Indian Express, “Several issues were raised by me. But it would not be correct for me to speak on those issues publicly. It is our party’s internal matter.” Sources indicate that Kharge has assured her that her concerns will be addressed.

Meanwhile, Hooda replaced Kharge at two rallies in Ambala and Gannaur, citing the latter’s health as the reason for absence. Selja confirmed her commitment to the party, refuting speculations about her potential departure. “There is no question of leaving the Congress. The party is in my blood,” she asserted.

Further challenging BJP’s stands, Selja repudiated suggestions made by former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar for her to join the BJP, insisting that such claims were only raised to sow discord during the election period.

In addition to Kumari Selja, Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala also declared his attendance at the Narwana rally, endorsing the party’s united front ahead of the forthcoming assembly elections on October 5, 2024.

Selja, who won her Lok Sabha seat from Sirsa and was an advocate for a ticket from the Uklana (SC) Assembly seat, remains an aspirant for the Chief Minister position should the Congress emerge victorious. She emphasized the need for fair representation across different sectors of society.

As Haryana braces for polls, the Congress’s internal dynamics and the engagement of leaders like Kumari Selja will be critical in determining its political fortunes against the ruling BJP.