Hooda Says Comments Against Kumari Selja Are Manipulated

In a press conference at his Rohtak residence, former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda addressed several key issues in state politics, as reported by The Haryana Story. Hooda's comments touched on internal Congress matters, criticism of the BJP government, and the changing political landscape in Haryana. 

Defending Party Unity and Values

Hooda strongly defended Congress party unity in response to recent controversial comments allegedly made against Kumari Selja, a respected Congress leader. He stated, "No Congress member can say such things. This seems entirely manipulated. The BJP's work is to pit people against each other in the name of religion and caste." Hooda emphasized Congress's inclusive values, quoting the party slogan, "The hand will be stamped, not on caste or creed." 

The former CM was clear about the consequences for any party member using discriminatory language: "If any Congress member uses such language, they have no place in the party."

Criticizing BJP's Governance

Hooda didn't hold back in his criticism of the BJP's 10-year rule in Haryana. He claimed, "When we left government in 2014, Haryana was number one in per capita income, sports, and employment. But today, Haryana has slipped in law and order and per capita income." 

He added that after a decade in power, the BJP has no achievements to showcase. Hooda also pointed out that justice has not been served to the state's female wrestlers, referring to the ongoing controversy involving a BJP MP.

Welcoming BJP Defectors

The press conference also saw Hooda welcoming several BJP leaders into the Congress fold. Former MLA Om Prakash Beri, his son and former Jhajjar district president Vikram Kadian, along with other leaders, left the BJP to join Congress. 

Hooda expressed confidence in Congress's prospects, stating, "I've traveled all over Haryana. All 36 communities have made up their mind to form a Congress government."

These developments suggest a shifting political landscape in Haryana, with the Congress seemingly gaining momentum as the state moves closer to its next electoral cycle. As the BJP faces internal dissent and defections, the Congress under Hooda's leadership appears to be positioning itself as a strong alternative.

The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this perceived shift in support translates into electoral success for the Congress in Haryana.