Tue Sep 24 05:50:51 UTC 2024: ## Congress Leader Selja Returns to Haryana Campaign, After Raising Concerns About Sidelining

**Sirsa, Haryana:** Congress general secretary and Sirsa MP Kumari Selja will be rejoining the party’s campaign in Haryana from September 26th, after a period of absence and expressed concerns about being sidelined.

Selja met with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday, raising concerns about being excluded from the party’s manifesto formulation, candidate selection process, and campaign platforms. She also criticized the “ignoring” of other senior leaders and workers.

Kharge, who was scheduled to address rallies in Ambala and Gannaur, cancelled his visit due to “ill health”, allowing Bhupinder Singh Hooda to address the crowds instead.

Selja, while confirming the meeting with Kharge, declined to elaborate on the specific issues raised, calling them “internal party matters.” However, sources revealed that Kharge assured her that her grievances would be addressed.

Selja, who has not hidden her ambitions to be Chief Minister should the Congress win, will be attending a public meeting in Narwana on September 26th, followed by other events.

Despite speculation from BJP leaders about a potential party switch, Selja strongly denied the claims, stating that the Congress is deeply ingrained in her family’s history and she has no intention of leaving.

She further emphasized that her absence from the campaign should not be used as a platform to attack the Congress, highlighting her extensive political experience and commitment to the party.

While Selja had initially sought a ticket from the Uklana (SC) Assembly seat, the Congress high command requested her to campaign for other candidates, given her recent victory in the Sirsa Lok Sabha polls.

Selja confirmed that she remains a contender for the Chief Minister’s position, citing her long political standing and the support she enjoys among her constituents. She emphasized the need for adequate representation of all sections of society.

In a separate development, Karnataka minister H K Patil has requested the suspension of BJP MLA Munirathna, who faces allegations of rape and making derogatory remarks against the Vokkaliga and Dalit communities.

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