
As Haryana gears up for its upcoming elections, an internal rift within the Congress party is raising concerns about its ability to rally support from key voter bases. Kumari Selja, a prominent Dalit leader, and the Hooda family, long considered the face of the Jat community, are locked in a power struggle that threatens to undermine Rahul Gandhi’s efforts to strengthen the Congress’s pro-Dalit pitch.
Both factions have clashed over candidate selections and leadership roles, with Selja advocating for greater representation of Dalits, while the Hoodas focus on maintaining their traditional base. This internal divide could have far-reaching consequences, as Congress has been trying to unify its voter base in a state where caste politics play a crucial role.
Rahul Gandhi’s efforts to bolster his pro-Dalit image through initiatives like the Bharat Jodo Yatra may lose traction if the ongoing feud continues. With Haryana’s complex caste dynamics, political analysts suggest that the Congress party’s inability to present a united front could benefit the ruling BJP, which has also been making overtures to the Dalit community.
The upcoming polls are shaping up to be a litmus test for Gandhi’s leadership and his vision for an inclusive Congress.