Congress Opts Out of Rajya Sabha Race in Haryana, Citing Lack of Numbers

In a significant political development, the Indian National Congress has announced its decision to abstain from fielding a candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha bypoll in Haryana. The party's decision comes just two days before the nomination deadline of August 21, with party leaders citing a lack of sufficient numbers as the primary reason for their withdrawal.

The Rajya Sabha seat in question became vacant after Deepender Hooda, son of former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, was elected to the Lok Sabha from Rohtak on June 4. The tenure for this seat extends until April 9, 2026.

To secure a victory in the Rajya Sabha election, a candidate needs the support of 44 MLAs in the current 87-member assembly. The Congress party, following the defection of Tosham MLA Kiran Choudhry to the BJP, is left with only 28 MLAs. Even with the support of three independent MLAs, their total strength reaches only 31, falling short of the required number. 

The political landscape in Haryana has become increasingly complex, with recent changes in party allegiances. The Jananayak Janta Party (JJP), previously holding 10 seats, has seen seven of its MLAs announce their departure, though they have not officially joined any other party. The Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and an independent MLA have consistently opposed the BJP in the assembly. 

On the other hand, the ruling BJP appears to have a numerical advantage. With 41 MLAs of its own, and support from the Haryana Lokhit Party, two independents, and potentially two JJP MLAs who have shown inclination towards the BJP, their tally could reach 46, surpassing the required 44.

The situation has led to accusations of political maneuvering. Former Deputy Chief Minister and JJP leader Dushyant Chautala has alleged a "nexus" between Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda and the BJP. Chautala challenged Hooda to field a candidate if there was no such collusion, stating that his party had already promised to vote against the BJP. 

Responding to these allegations, Hooda maintained that the Congress lacks the numbers to contest effectively. He stated, "We are not putting up a candidate for the Rajya Sabha poll. JJP MLAs who have resigned have not joined the Congress. It is not clear how they will vote." However, Hooda expressed openness to supporting any candidate capable of defeating the BJP, should such a possibility arise. 

The political drama is further complicated by pending disqualification petitions. The Congress has sought disqualification of Kiran Choudhry, while the JJP has petitioned against two of its MLAs who supported the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. These cases, currently under the Speaker's consideration, add another layer of uncertainty to the political equations. 

As the nomination deadline approaches, the opposition in Haryana appears fragmented, struggling to present a united front against the BJP. The ruling party, meanwhile, seems poised to capitalize on this disunity, potentially securing the Rajya Sabha seat with relative ease. The outcome of this bypoll could have significant implications for the political landscape of Haryana in the coming months.