Chandigarh: With over a year left for the Haryana Assembly elections, the political landscape in the state has started to intensify. Leaders and political parties are actively engaging with the public to establish connections. Bhupinder Singh Hooda, former Chief Minister and current Leader of the Opposition, exudes confidence in his party’s ability to secure a comfortable majority in the upcoming Assembly elections.
In an exclusive interview with Senior Executive Editor Aditya Kant, the four-time MP and two-time Chief Minister expresses optimism about Congress’ position and progress in Haryana. He downplays concerns about factionalism within the party and avoids directly addressing queries regarding his potential candidacy for Chief Minister if Congress emerges victorious.
Excerpts:
AK: With parliamentary and Assembly elections drawing closer, where does Congress stand in Haryana?
BSH: We are in a strong position, and the party’s morale is high. We have already initiated various programs in the state to connect with the masses, including the recent ‘Vipaksh aap ke samaksh’ event in Bhiwani. Additionally, we have covered eight parliamentary constituencies, and the remaining two, Hisar and Rohtak, will also be covered soon. The response to programs like ‘Haath se Haath jodo’ has been encouraging. Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra and his walk from Nuh to Ambala have revitalized the party, evident from the large gathering in Panipat during the coldest days earlier this year. Presently, all MLAs and party leaders are actively engaging with the public.
AK: What lessons has the party learned from the past Assembly elections?
BSH: In the 2019 elections, the people showed interest in Congress. While I wouldn’t call them mistakes, there were some omissions from our side, perhaps in ticket distribution and canvassing.
AK: How is the party addressing concerns about factionalism?
BSH: Factionalism is more highlighted in the media than within the party. In politics, individuals seek to carve out a place for themselves, which is not a problem. However, when the party leadership makes decisions, everyone accepts and follows them under the guidance of Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Khargeji.
AK: Does the party have an assessment or a target for the number of seats it aims to win?
BSH: Our assessment is that the party will secure a good majority, and we will form the government on our own.
AK: Is the party open to forming an alliance if it falls short of the magic number?
BSH: Congress doesn’t need an alliance in Haryana. We are strong in the state and will come to power with a clear majority.
AK: In that case, do you see yourself as the top contender for the chief ministerial post?
BSH: My opinion is not relevant. The chief minister is elected following a procedure. Observers appointed by the party will gather feedback from elected MLAs and submit a report to the party high command. I was elected as Chief Minister in 2005 following a similar process.
AK: What about your son Deepender Hooda’s potential candidacy?
BSH: As long as I am here, that question doesn’t arise (laughs). I can’t predict his future, and decisions will be taken based on the party’s process.
AK: Some claim that Congress has been slow in holding organizational elections, while the BJP is more organized at the grassroots level. How will it impact the party’s prospects?
BSH: That’s not true. We have conducted elections at various levels, and representatives have been appointed. It’s not a significant concern.
AK: What are the key issues that Congress plans to focus on during the elections, and where do you see the Khattar-led BJP government’s shortcomings?
BSH: The present BJP government has been a failure on all fronts. Haryana, once a leader in per capita income and investment, is now plagued with unemployment and inflation. Crime rates have surged, and corruption is rampant. Every section of society is displeased with the government, reflecting a lack of governance during times of crisis, like floods.
AK: How do you view the Congress-dominated UPA’s new challenge to the BJP-led NDA under the new acronym I.N.D.I.A?
BSH: It’s a positive step. A strong ruling party and a strong opposition are essential for a healthy democracy. Coming together with more opposition parties will strengthen our democratic system.
AK: What do you think of the NCP split in Maharashtra, and how will it impact the BJP?
BSH: Such actions usually backfire in the long run. Organizing splits in political parties doesn’t sit well with the people, and BJP may face significant losses in Maharashtra elections.
AK: Some claim that you are soft on the Centre due to your friendly equation with PM Modi and HM Amit Shah. How do you respond?
BSH: I don’t hold animosity towards anyone. We all fight for our respective parties while retaining our individuality.
AK: Your supporters suggest that Congress may consider an alliance with BJP if you are not elected as Chief Minister. What are your thoughts on this?
BSH: I became Chief Minister 18 years ago. Now, my priority is to see Congress return to power. The chief ministerial position is not the only consideration; our focus is on winning the elections.
AK: How do you perceive the changes in politics over the past four decades?
BSH: Politics and society have both witnessed significant changes in the last 70 years. Today, the dynamics are different, and the level of respect between individuals and institutions has evolved. The spirit of camaraderie among elected representatives from different parties is not as prevalent as it used to be.
