Hooda Rallies Congress Troops for Haryana Assembly ''Real Battle''

Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has sounded the battle cry for the upcoming state Assembly elections, urging Congress party workers to gear up for what he calls the "real battle." Speaking at a gathering in Ambala City, Hooda emphasized the need for continued momentum following the party's recent Lok Sabha success. 

Preparing for the "Real Battle" 

Hooda congratulated party workers on their recent victory but cautioned against complacency. "We have won the first battle, but the real battle is yet to be won," he stated, referring to the Assembly elections expected in about three months. The veteran leader stressed the importance of door-to-door campaigning to inform voters about the BJP government's failures and highlight the Congress party's achievements during its previous tenure.

Promises of Sweeping Reforms 

In his address, Hooda outlined a series of ambitious promises for the Congress manifesto: 

1. Free medical treatment up to Rs 25 lakh for state residents.
2. Elderly pension increased to Rs 6,000.
3. Reinstatement of the old pension scheme for government employees.  
4. Gas cylinders priced at Rs 500 5. 300 units of free electricity.  

He also announced plans for an Industrial Model Township in Ambala, signaling a focus on economic development. 

Criticism of BJP's Decade in Power 

Hooda didn't mince words when critiquing the BJP's ten-year rule in Haryana. He accused the current government of delivering "nothing to the people except fear, corruption, crime, drugs, unemployment and inflation." The former CM also claimed that the BJP had halted projects initiated during the Congress tenure. 

Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee chief Udai Bhan joined in the criticism, calling for the BJP to be held accountable for its "wrong policies" and alleged errors in programs like the Parivar Pehchan Patra and property ID systems. 

When asked about recent developments within the party, including Kiran Choudhry joining the BJP and Kumari Selja's claims about ticket allocation, Hooda remained confident. He dismissed concerns about party departures, stating, "Congress is in a strong position and the quitting of the party by one person wouldn't make any difference." Regarding internal disagreements, he emphasized the importance of respecting the high command's decisions on ticket allocation. 

As the political temperature rises in Haryana, Hooda's rally in Ambala serves as a clear signal that the Congress is gearing up for an intense campaign. With promises of significant reforms and a strategy focused on grassroots mobilization, the party aims to capitalize on what it perceives as growing dissatisfaction with the current BJP government. 

The coming months are likely to see increased political activity across Haryana as both major parties ramp up their efforts to secure victory in the Assembly elections. As Hooda puts it, the "real battle" for Haryana's future is about to begin.