Hooda leads unified Congress protest, strengthens CLP bid

As the Congress leadership continues to deliberate on naming the next Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader in Haryana, Thursday’s protest against the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the National Herald case turned into a strong display of Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s clout within the state unit.

Led by the 77-year-old former Chief Minister, the protest witnessed participation from almost all Congress MPs, MLAs, and senior functionaries in the state, including members of rival factions. In contrast, notable absentees included Sirsa MP Kumari Selja, senior leader Birender Singh, and AICC general secretary Randeep Surjewala, underlining Hooda’s growing dominance.

Though the stated purpose of the demonstration was to express solidarity with Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, the real message was unmistakable — Hooda remains the central figure in Haryana Congress politics, with considerable grassroots and institutional support.

Among those present were Haryana Congress president Udai Bhan, co-incharge Jitendra Baghel, all working presidents —Jitendra Bhardwaj, Suresh Gupta, and Ramkishan Gujjar — along with MPs Deepender Singh Hooda, Satpal Brahmachari, and Varun Chaudhary. Senior MLAs, including Ashok Arora, Raghubir Kadyan, Aftab Ahmed, and Geeta Bhukkal, were also present.

Interestingly, even MLAs perceived to be part of the anti-Hooda faction — Aditya Surjewala, Shalley Chaudhary, Renu Bala, and Akram Khan — attended, lending further weight to the event’s significance.

“Hooda ensured everyone turned up. This kind of collective show wouldn’t have been possible without him. He’s undeniably our tallest leader,” said MLA Aftab Ahmed.

Varun Chaudhary said, “This protest, under the leadership of Udai Bhan and Hooda, sends a strong message to the BJP — we are united and resilient.”

Hooda said, “Almost all MPs and MLAs were present. When agencies are used with political malice, it becomes dangerous for democracy. The National Herald case is nothing but political vendetta.”

Meanwhile, party insiders say the Congress high command is expected to announce both the CLP leader and new state president together.

Haryana Tribune