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The article delves into the internal strife within the Haryana Congress party as they grapple with the selection of their Leader of Opposition. The recent state assembly elections resulted in a resounding defeat for the Congress, leaving the party to navigate a complex political landscape with a fractured leadership. The primary point of contention revolves around the suitability of former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda for the position. Despite his past leadership role, Hooda's stature has been tarnished by the party's electoral failure, prompting a cautious approach from the central leadership.
The article outlines the concerns surrounding Hooda's potential reappointment. His leadership has been linked to the Congress's pro-Jat electioneering strategy, a tactic widely perceived as contributing to their loss. Consequently, there's a growing sentiment within the party to appoint a non-Jat leader to represent them in the opposition, potentially signaling a shift in their political approach. However, Hooda's influence within the party cannot be disregarded. He commands a strong following among the MLAs, as evident by the 30 MLAs who converged at his residence after the election results, sending a clear message of support to the central leadership. This demonstrates his considerable clout and ability to sway party decisions.
Adding further complexity to the situation is the opposing viewpoint of Selja, a prominent Congress leader in Haryana. She advocates for a more assertive approach, arguing that granting Hooda full control over the party in Haryana could lead to further setbacks. Selja's preferred candidate for the Leader of Opposition role is Chander Mohan, a known critic of Hooda. This internal disagreement highlights the deep divisions within the Haryana Congress, underscoring the difficult task of selecting a leader who can unify the party and effectively oppose the BJP government. The article emphasizes that regardless of the final choice, Hooda's influence will likely persist, making it imperative for the central leadership to consider his position and the implications of his supporters within the party.
Source: Haryana Congress' new dilemma: Who will be Leader of Opposition as Hooda-Selja rift continues