In an exclusive interview with The Indian Express, former Hisar MP and Congress leader Brijendra Singh outlined a comprehensive strategy for the party's revival in Haryana, emphasizing the need to strengthen organizational structure and increase grassroots visibility.
Organizational Restructuring Underway
The bureaucrat-turned-politician revealed that while initial steps have been taken with the appointment of state president and district chiefs, significant work remains at the constituency and block levels. Singh expressed confidence that once these organizational structures are properly established, the party's functioning will smoothen out considerably.
Addressing the issue of groupism within the Haryana Congress, Singh pointed out that old habits die hard, noting that over the past 15-20 years, people have grown accustomed to identifying more with individual leaders than with the party itself. He attributed this phenomenon to the absence of a strong organization during the last decade.
The Path to Congress Comeback
Singh emphasized that for the Congress to stage a successful comeback in Haryana, the party must fully occupy its political space by being visible on the ground and on the streets. He stressed the importance of fighting an ideological battle alongside organizational strengthening, echoing Rahul Gandhi's position that this struggle extends beyond mere electoral politics.
The former MP also highlighted the necessity of enforcing party discipline with fairness, stating that equal treatment is essential. He advocated for fair representation of all segments of society within the party organization to ensure comprehensive inclusion.
Sadbhav Yatra: Connecting with Grassroots
Taking inspiration from Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, Brijendra Singh embarked on his own Sadbhav Yatra (harmony march) across Haryana on October 5, covering more than 600 kilometers to date. During his journey, he observed that people are receptive to the Congress message and noted particularly positive responses from intellectuals and youth seeking fresh political perspectives.
While not in election mode currently, Singh stated the yatra's agenda focuses on resisting attempts to weaken the brotherhood among Haryana's 36 biradaris (communities), ensuring unity across all social groups, and strengthening the bond between Congress workers and the party leadership.
On the question of Rahul Gandhi's leadership following the Mahagathbandhan's setback in Bihar, Singh defended the Congress leader, stating his leadership was never in doubt especially after the Bharat Jodo Yatra. He argued that judging Gandhi's leadership solely on Bihar results would be unfair since Congress plays a secondary role to the RJD in the state's political landscape.
Regarding the Centre's proposal to bring Chandigarh under Article 240 of the Constitution, Singh expressed concerns about central interference, noting Punjab's historical wariness of Delhi's authority. He simultaneously advocated for rotational UT Administrator post between Haryana and Punjab, rather than allowing it to become Punjab's exclusive prerogative.
Singh also reported that Rahul Gandhi's vote chori offensive against the Election Commission and BJP regarding alleged electoral roll irregularities has gained significant traction in Haryana, with the message effectively reaching grassroots levels.
