What Made Kumari Selja Agrees to Join Congress Campaign?

In a significant development for the Congress party in Haryana, Kumari Selja, a key Dalit leader and Sirsa MP, has decided to return to active campaigning after a 12-day hiatus. This decision comes after a series of behind-the-scenes negotiations and interventions by top party leadership, including Rahul Gandhi. 

The Path to Reconciliation

Selja's initial withdrawal from campaign activities was triggered by dissatisfaction over ticket distribution, being denied permission to contest assembly elections, and alleged objectionable comments made against her. However, the party's efforts to bring her back into the fold have seemingly paid off.

Sources reveal that Rahul Gandhi personally reached out to Selja, asking her to meet with party president Mallikarjun Kharge. During this meeting, Kharge reportedly provided assurances regarding the Chief Minister's face for the party and Rahul Gandhi's rally schedule, which played a crucial role in addressing Selja's concerns. 

Key Factors in Selja's Return

1. Revised Campaign Schedule: The party has reworked its campaign itinerary to include more of Selja's supporters. Notably, Rahul Gandhi is now set to begin his campaign on September 26 from Asandh, visiting the constituency of Shamsher Gogi, a Selja loyalist.
2. Assurances on CM Candidacy: The party leadership has assured Selja that the decision on the Chief Ministerial candidate will be made by the parliamentary board, addressing her concerns about being sidelined in favor of former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda. 
3. Addressing Ticket Distribution Concerns: While Selja's camp received fewer tickets than hoped for, the party has made efforts to acknowledge her influence and importance within the state unit.

The Importance of Dalit Vote Bank

Selja's return to campaigning is crucial for the Congress, given her significant influence over the 21% Dalit vote bank in Haryana. Her absence from the campaign trail could have potentially alienated this important demographic, a fact that the BJP had been quick to capitalize on in their campaign rhetoric.

BJP's Attempts to Exploit the Situation

During Selja's absence, BJP leaders, including Home Minister Amit Shah and Haryana's acting Chief Minister Nayab Saini, had been highlighting the internal discord within the Congress. They aimed to make Selja's dissatisfaction a major election issue, particularly in the 17 reserved seats and other constituencies where she holds sway.

Looking Ahead

As the Congress moves forward with its campaign, the party will need to maintain a delicate balance between its various factions. While Selja's return strengthens the party's position, especially among Dalit voters, the underlying tensions between different camps, particularly between Selja and Hooda supporters, may require ongoing management.

The Haryana Story will continue to monitor these developments as the election campaign progresses, providing insights into how this reconciliation impacts the Congress party's prospects in the upcoming Haryana assembly elections.