Haryana Congress faces leadership tussle, new formula proposed

In a pivotal development, the Haryana Congress’s internal struggle over organisation formation has reached a crossroad. SRK Group, which comprises leaders Kumari Selja, Randeep Singh Surjewala, and Kiran Chaudhary, has refrained from suggesting names for District President to State Congress in-charge Deepak Babaria.

While Babaria has made attempts to solicit their input, these leaders have conveyed that he can proceed as he deems fit. Currently, deliberations are centred around a new leadership formula that aims to cater to the interests of various leaders’ supporters.

Drawing parallels to the State Congress structure, where the state president is accompanied by four executive state presidents, it’s being proposed that districts too may have executive district presidents along with the primary district president. These positions, numbering possibly three to four, will aim to ensure a balance in caste representation.

The proposed system by Babaria suggests a diverse caste-based appointment. For instance, if a Jat leader is appointed as a District President, other castes such as Brahmin, Vaishya, Punjabi, Backward Class, and Scheduled Caste may see representation in the working president roles. This strategy is aimed at reflecting diversity and ensuring inclusivity.

There is a prevailing sentiment that the roles of District Presidents should be assigned to new, dynamic faces instead of previous MLAs. Moreover, those vying for assembly tickets might find it challenging to secure the role of district president.

Babaria is set to discuss his proposed formula with National General Secretary (Organization) KC Venugopal. Based on district meetings conducted by the AICC Coordinator, Babaria has readied a list of potential district presidents to present to Venugopal.

Sources indicate dissatisfaction within the SRK Group regarding Babaria’s approach and the overall selection methodology, which is evident as the trio from SRK Group hasn’t shared their preferred leadership candidates with Babaria.

Venugopal, in response to Babaria’s list, will likely engage with senior Congress figures, including former CM Bhupendra Singh Hooda and MP Deependra Singh Hooda, among others. He also aims to converse with SRK Group leaders to win their confidence in the evolving process.