Kumari Selja's Absence Raises Concerns in Haryana Congress

The ongoing election campaign in Haryana has taken an unexpected turn as Kumari Selja, a prominent Congress leader and former Union Minister, remains conspicuously absent from the political scene. This development has sent ripples through the party ranks, raising questions about internal unity and campaign strategy.

A Noticeable Absence

Kumari Selja, the Member of Parliament from Sirsa, has been missing in action since the Congress party finalized its list of candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections. Her absence has not gone unnoticed, with party members expressing growing concern over the impact on the campaign's momentum.

Factionalism at Play

Sources within the party suggest that Selja's absence is rooted in factional disputes over ticket allocation. While former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and state party president Udai Bhan reportedly played a significant role in candidate selection, Selja had been lobbying for her own supporters.

The disagreements were particularly evident in the delayed announcement of candidates for two constituencies in Hisar district - Uklana (reserved) and Narnaund. Selja, having a personal stake in these areas, had been pushing for her preferred candidates.

The Caste Slur Incident 

Adding fuel to the fire, a recent incident involving a caste slur against Kumari Selja in Narnaund has further complicated the situation. The police have since booked the accused, Pirthi, under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda was quick to denounce the remarks, highlighting the sensitive nature of the issue. 

Impact on Campaign

Political analysts are weighing in on the potential consequences of Selja's absence. Prof ML Goyal, a retired political science professor, notes, "Selja's absence will affect the Congress' prospects if the deadlock between the two camps of Haryana leaders is not resolved soon."

The absence of such a senior leader is not only affecting the campaigns of candidates she supported but also casting a shadow over the party's overall strategy in the state.

As the election draws closer, all eyes are on the Congress leadership to see how they will address this internal rift and ensure a united front in their campaign against their political opponents.