Political Turmoil Unfolds in Haryana Congress as Factionalism Takes Center Stage

In a dramatic turn of events on the first day of the new year, factionalism within the Haryana Congress came to the forefront during a party workers' conference in Karnal. Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda led the event, but conspicuous by his absence was Congress legislator Shamsher Singh Gogi, considered a prominent member of the faction led by former Pradesh Adhyaksh Kumari Selja.

When questioned about Gogi's absence, Hooda responded, suggesting that Gogi might have other commitments. However, Gogi himself later clarified that he was not even aware of the program and was not invited.

The rift between Gogi's faction and Hooda's camp, known for their opposition to each other, became evident during the workers' conference in Karnal, where no leader from Gogi's faction was visible.Addressing the gathering, Hooda spoke about the upcoming state elections, asserting that the Congress is fully prepared and will conduct campaigns reaching every household. However, the absence of leaders from Gogi's faction raised questions about the party's unity.

Hooda also commented on the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, stating that he was not invited to the event and emphasizing that the temple is not affiliated with any political party.Touching upon national issues, Hooda expressed concern about the treatment of female athletes, citing the controversy surrounding wrestler Vinesh Phogat's return of sports awards due to political interference.

Taking a dig at the BJP-led government in Rajasthan, Hooda called for a reduction in gas cylinder prices in Haryana, promising that if Congress forms the government, cylinders would be provided at a lower rate.Responding to the recent chargesheet by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Gurugram land scam case, which included the name of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, Hooda defended her, stating that being named in a chargesheet doesn't necessarily imply guilt.

The evolving political scenario in Haryana Congress hints at internal power struggles, with factions led by Hooda and Selja seemingly at odds, potentially impacting the party's cohesion in the upcoming elections.