Amid the intensifying Haryana elections 2024, the reported rift between senior Congress leaders Bhupendra Hooda and Kumari Selja captured media attention. The discord had escalated to the point where the BJP extended an invitation to Kumari Selja to switch parties. However, on Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited Haryana, where he was seen bringing together Kumari Selja and Bhupendra Hooda. This gesture raised the question: can a symbolic handshake translate into genuine reconciliation between the two leaders?
Rahul Gandhi's Message of Unity
During a rally in Ambala, Rahul Gandhi addressed the ongoing speculations surrounding factionalism within the Haryana Congress. In a highly visible attempt to quash these rumors, Gandhi took to the stage and introduced both Bhupendra Singh Hooda and Kumari Selja to the crowd, holding their hands as a display of unity. The symbolic gesture was captured on video and quickly circulated, suggesting an effort to demonstrate cohesion within the party. Priyanka Gandhi was also present on the stage, further amplifying the message.
This act of solidarity, however, comes after reports surfaced about Kumari Selja's dissatisfaction with the party leadership. She had reportedly felt sidelined in recent times, particularly regarding decisions around ticket distribution, which appeared to favor the Hooda camp. Her discontent was so significant that she distanced herself from election campaigning for a period.
Selja’s Influence on Dalit Voters
Kumari Selja holds considerable influence over Haryana's Dalit voters, who comprise 20-22% of the electorate. Her displeasure posed a potential risk for Congress, especially so close to the elections. Selja herself had aspirations of contesting the assembly elections, but she was not allotted a ticket, adding to her frustrations. Given that only five days remained before the election, Congress could not afford any internal divisions. Hence, Rahul Gandhi’s public message of unity was seen as a strategic move to minimize any electoral damage.
Split could give the BJP an advantage
The BJP, on the other hand, has been quick to highlight the internal discord, accusing Congress of being plagued by factionalism. The Congress leadership likely understands that if the perceived split between Hooda and Selja continues, it could give the BJP an advantage. This is not the first time the party has tried to address these concerns. During a previous rally, Rahul Gandhi had also brought Hooda and Selja on stage together, signaling unity within the leadership.
The Bigger Question: Will Unity Last?
Despite the public display of camaraderie, political analysts are divided on whether this gesture will truly heal the rift between the two leaders. While some believe that a handshake on stage might not resolve deeper personal and political grievances, they note that such gestures can still lead to practical outcomes, such as power-sharing arrangements. .
In essence, while Rahul Gandhi’s efforts might prevent immediate threats of factionalism affecting Congress’s chances in the elections, it remains to be seen whether the symbolic joining of hands will foster lasting unity within the Haryana Congress.
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