Kumari Selja, the Sirsa MP, has drawn attention for her notable absence from the Congress campaign for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections. Adding to the intrigue, former Chief Minister and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has invited her to join the BJP. Selja's position within the Congress remains uncertain as her lack of participation raises questions about her future in the party.
Speaking at an event in Karnal, Khattar emphasised that Selja deserves respect and care, stating, “We are ready to take her into the BJP fold.”
Khattar’s remarks came in response to growing concerns about internal rifts within the Haryana Congress, particularly following Selja’s absence from critical events, including the party's manifesto launch led by national president Mallikarjun Kharge. He criticised the Congress leadership, saying, “Our Dalit sister (Kumari Selja), after all, from the Dalit community and the Scheduled Caste community, deserves care and respect from everyone. Humiliating someone is forbidden in society. If someone stands up against you in a panchayat, they are still given consideration. But instead, you all have cursed the community, while she sits silently. A large section of society is now wondering what to do, and people are troubled by them; we have included them with us. We are ready to take them.”
The invitation from Khattar highlights the ongoing tensions within the Congress, where factions led by Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Selja are vying for influence. Bhupinder Hooda acknowledged that while aspirations and differences exist among party leaders, the Congress is contesting the elections unitedly. However, the decision to not field sitting MPs in the elections is aimed at reducing infighting within the party.
As the October 5 elections approach, both Selja and Hooda are conducting separate campaigns, with Hooda’s faction benefiting from support among the dominant Jat community, while Selja draws backing from the Dalit community. With election results set to be declared on October 8, the political landscape in Haryana remains highly dynamic, with both leaders positioning themselves for potential leadership roles should Congress regain power.
Khattar’s invitation has further fueled speculation about potential party switches, especially concerning Selja. Khattar remarked, “It is a world of possibilities,” leaving the door open for future developments.
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