As Haryana gears up for its upcoming state elections, the political landscape is abuzz with speculation about whether the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will extend their alliance from the recent Lok Sabha polls. With just a month left for the elections, the question of an alliance remains one of the most talked-about topics in political circles.
Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s Stand
Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda had recently clarified that there have been no discussions between Congress and AAP regarding an alliance for the state elections. “The alliance we had was at the national level. We have not spoken to them. Here, the fight is between BJP and Congress,” Hooda stated, emphasizing the direct competition between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress in Haryana.
In the Lok Sabha elections held earlier this year, Congress marked a significant comeback by winning five out of the ten seats in Haryana, while the AAP failed to secure any.
Rahul Gandhi’s Move
Amidst the ongoing debate, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has reportedly sought opinions from party leaders regarding a potential alliance with the AAP. Sources suggest that Hooda might be open to offering 3-4 seats to AAP candidates in the 90-seat Haryana Assembly. The Congress is said to have already finalized 30 candidates, with an official list expected to be released soon.
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Gandhi’s request for a report on the feasibility of an alliance indicates a cautious approach by the Congress leadership. While the state Congress leadership appears reluctant, the party’s high command has urged them to reassess the ground reality. This reconsideration is seen in light of the upcoming Delhi elections and the potential benefits of a Congress-AAP tie-up in the capital.
The Strategic Importance of an Alliance
The Congress leadership is likely viewing this alliance through the broader lens of national politics. With Rahul Gandhi now serving as the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and the BJP lacking a majority, a strong performance by the INDIA bloc in Haryana could further weaken the ruling party. For Congress, preventing a division of anti-BJP votes in Haryana might be key to securing a victory, making an alliance with AAP a strategic move.
AAP’s Response
Senior AAP leader and MP Sanjay Singh has expressed openness to the idea of an alliance, welcoming reports of Rahul Gandhi’s interest in exploring this option. However, he indicated that any decision would require consultation with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, currently embroiled in a money laundering case.
“Our priority is to defeat the BJP… Our Haryana in-charge Sandeep Pathak and Sushil Gupta will discuss it and take a final decision and inform Arvind Kejriwal about it,” Singh stated, reflecting AAP’s cautious but optimistic stance.
Potential Challenges
Despite the positive signals, any alliance talks are likely to involve tough negotiations. The previous tie-up during the Lok Sabha elections saw Congress benefit significantly, while AAP gained little, leading to internal criticism within AAP. The memory of Sushil Gupta’s defeat in Kurukshetra, blamed by some AAP leaders on Congress, could complicate discussions. As both parties prepare for the electoral battle, hard bargaining is expected to be a defining feature of any alliance talks.
