Mon Sep 23 14:12:58 UTC 2024: ## Congress Factionalism Threatens Haryana Election Prospects: Saluja’s Discontent Spurs High Command Intervention
**Chandigarh:** The Congress party in Haryana is facing an internal crisis that threatens to derail its campaign for the 2024 Assembly elections. The growing rift between former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda and senior leader Kumari Selja has reached a point of near open conflict, with both factions ignoring each other during election campaigning. This has raised concerns that the party may suffer a setback if the discord is not addressed.
Selja has expressed her displeasure over being sidelined in the campaign, even abstaining from election rallies for a period. Rumors emerged of her potential departure from the party, prompting the Congress high command to take immediate action.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the party leadership has initiated efforts to pacify Selja and ensure her participation in the upcoming elections. A message has been conveyed to Hooda to acknowledge the importance of senior leaders in the campaign and avoid overlooking their contribution.
Congress in-charge Deepak Babaria has reportedly spoken with Hooda in this regard. It is anticipated that Selja may be seen at a campaign event with Rahul or Priyanka Gandhi in the near future, marking her return to active electioneering in the state.
Selja, currently in Delhi, is focusing on addressing local concerns in her constituency. She has also scaled back her public pronouncements on Haryana politics, instead utilizing social media to comment on national issues.
This internal strife within the Congress raises critical questions about its ability to unite and present a cohesive front in the upcoming elections. With the stakes high, the party leadership will need to bridge the gap between the two factions and ensure a united campaign to regain its footing in the state.
First Piper 