Internal friction within the Haryana unit of the Congress party has resurfaced following a sharp public outburst by Sirsa MLA Gokul Setia against his party colleague and Lok Sabha MP Kumari Selja. The controversy erupted over leadership appointments made for the upcoming Loktantra Bachao Abhiyan, scheduled to commence on October 8. Expressing deep dissatisfaction on social media, the legislator voiced strong objections to the appointment of former minister Chaudhary Birender Singh as the in-charge for Sirsa district, linking the political manoeuvre directly to the influence of the local parliamentarian.
Dispute Over Consultation and Organizational Authority
Gokul Setia questioned the administrative protocol followed during these assignments, drawing a comparison with hypothetical appointments elsewhere. He argued that had he been designated to lead campaign efforts in Uchana, local election contenders would have routinely been consulted beforehand. However, in Sirsa, the in-charge and party leadership opted to bypass the sitting Congress MLA entirely. Setia stated that the member of parliament visited Uchana, and within a matter of days, this organizational appointment was finalized. Asserting that such a decision could not realistically bypass a senior figure and sitting MP, Setia demanded transparent clarification regarding any underlying grievances the parliamentarian holds against him.
Grievances Stemming From Past Electoral Battles
Levelling serious allegations of party betrayal against Kumari Selja, the legislator brought up grievances from earlier electoral contests. Setia pointed out that during the assembly elections, no effort was made by the MP to persuade a fellow associate to withdraw in his support. Furthermore, he claimed that during the municipal council elections, key associates aligned with the parliamentarian openly worked against the official Congress candidate while leadership turned a blind eye. Setia remarked that organizational positions are now repeatedly being granted to his political detractors, warning that his past restraint should not be mistaken for ignorance.
Political Feud With Chaudhary Birender Singh
The announcement naming Chaudhary Birender Singh as the head for Sirsa ahead of the October 8 democracy-saving drive remains the principal flashpoint of the dispute. While acknowledging personal respect for Birender Singh due to his senior age, Setia maintained that substantial political differences divide them. The MLA noted that Birender Singh is fully aware of their persistent political rivalry. Setia added that if the former minister remains keen on engaging in a political face-off, he is welcome in Sirsa. Expressing personal hurt over the appointment, Setia declared that his style of politics relies on open confrontation rather than covert manoeuvres.
