Chandigarh: In the wake of the surprising defeat in the recent Haryana Assembly elections, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) has established a fact-finding committee to delve into the reasons behind the party’s loss. Engaging with candidates from all 90 constituencies, the committee aimed to uncover the underlying issues that contributed to the disappointing outcome.
A Chorus of Complaints
During feedback sessions with committee members Harish Chaudhary and Bhupesh Baghel, candidates voiced several concerns, highlighting key problems they encountered throughout the campaign:
– Lack of Clear Strategy: Many felt there was no coherent election strategy in place.
– Weak Grassroots Organization: Insufficient groundwork hampered their outreach efforts.
– Unpreparedness for Leadership Visits: Candidates expressed frustration over inadequate preparation for visits by senior party leaders.
– Visible Internal Conflicts: Disputes within the party were apparent, undermining public confidence.
– Over-reliance on Jat Votes: An excessive focus on securing votes from the Jat community proved detrimental.
– Overconfidence Post-Lok Sabha Results: Success in previous Lok Sabha elections led to complacency.
Leadership and Coordination Issues
A striking complaint from candidates was the absence of a “general secretary” to provide guidance and coordination during the campaign. This perceived lack of leadership contributed significantly to the party’s struggles.
The EVM Debate
Several candidates raised doubts regarding the integrity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Some expressed disbelief that “every other person in a constituency voted for the BJP,” particularly in villages that have historically supported Congress. This frustration reflects a broader sentiment among losing candidates regarding the voting process.
Factionalism: A Mixed Blessing
The internal dynamics of the party were complex, with some candidates blaming factionalism for their losses, while others praised former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda for his support. Hooda’s assistance in “tricky” constituencies showcased both the advantages and pitfalls of internal party factions.
Moving Forward
As Harish Chaudhary noted, the feedback gathered so far lacks a clear direction for the party’s future actions. “The party will let us know what we are supposed to do further,” he remarked.
The Congress party now faces the challenge of transforming this feedback into tangible reforms. Key questions remain: Will they address organizational weaknesses? Can they unify differing factions? How will they tackle concerns about EVMs?
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