"I Won't Run": Raj Babbar Shuts Down Haryana Assembly Election Rumours

In a decisive statement, veteran actor and Congress leader Raj Babbar has emphatically ruled out contesting the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections. "I will not contest the election. I haven't thought about it, nor have I ever contested an assembly election. No one will even offer me an assembly ticket," Babbar declared, putting to rest swirling rumors that had positioned him as a potential chief ministerial candidate. 

The 71-year-old politician's announcement quashes speculation that he might emerge as a challenger to former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda's leadership within the party. Babbar emphasized his 26-year-long active political career but expressed a clear lack of interest in state-level politics.

Seizing the moment, Babbar offered insights into his relationships with key Congress figures in Haryana. He spoke warmly of Bhupinder Singh Hooda, describing their friendship as predating their political careers. "Hooda is very professional politically. He never puts friendship first, but he maintains friendships," Babbar remarked, providing a glimpse into the former CM's approach to politics and personal relationships. 

The actor-politician also addressed his rapport with other prominent Congress leaders in the state. He expressed respect for Kumari Selja, the Haryana Congress chief, while admitting uncertainty about her intentions. Babbar spoke positively about Randeep Surjewala, revealing that Surjewala was keen on Babbar's involvement in Haryana politics. 

Reflecting on his recent political engagement in the state, Babbar discussed his campaign for the Gurugram Lok Sabha seat. He ran against BJP's Rao Inderjit Singh, a five-time MP and two-time Union Minister of State. Although Babbar lost the election, his candidacy was seen as a strategic move by the Congress to challenge the BJP stronghold in the region.

Despite his electoral defeat, Babbar has maintained an active presence in Gurugram, meeting with constituents and addressing their concerns to local officials. This continued engagement had fueled speculation about his potential run in the assembly elections, a notion he has now firmly dismissed. 

Babbar's decision not to contest the assembly elections and his insights into party dynamics come at a crucial time for the Congress in Haryana. As the party strategizes for the upcoming state elections, Babbar's statements offer a glimpse into the internal workings and relationships within the Haryana Congress.

The actor-politician's candid remarks about his political future and his relationships with key party figures provide valuable context for understanding the current political landscape in Haryana. While he won't be on the ballot, Babbar's influence and connections within the party suggest he may still play a significant role in shaping the Congress party's campaign and strategy in the region.

As Haryana gears up for its assembly elections, Babbar's clear stance on his non-participation as a candidate clarifies one aspect of the Congress party's lineup. However, his continued involvement in state politics and his insights into party dynamics ensure that he remains a figure of interest in Haryana's political narrative.