In a significant political development in Haryana, former Union Minister Chaudhary Birender Singh has rejoined the Congress party after nearly a decade. Singh, who had resigned from the Congress in August 2014 to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), cited a return to his ideological roots as the reason for his comeback.
Addressing the media on his decision, Singh stated, “This is not just a return to the party, but a return to the ideology. Many of my colleagues have metaphorically placed stars on my car for this homecoming, symbolizing not only my return but also the revival of our shared principles.”
Singh’s wife has also joined the Congress along with him. The occasion witnessed the presence of several prominent leaders of the Haryana Congress, including Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Randeep Surjewala, and Kumari Selja, among others.
Explaining his decision further, Singh highlighted a conversation with senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, emphasizing the need for nurturing democratic values and respecting diverse opinions within the political spectrum. He criticized the BJP for what he termed as “dynastic politics,” asserting that his loyalty lies with the people of Haryana, whom he claims the BJP failed to represent adequately during its tenure.
During his stint with the BJP, Singh served as a Minister of Steel and Minister of Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Sanitation, and Drinking Water in the Narendra Modi government. He resigned from the BJP in August 2014 and was subsequently elected to the Rajya Sabha with the BJP’s support. Between 2014 and 2016, he held ministerial portfolios in the central government.
Singh’s return to the Congress is seen as a significant setback for the BJP in Haryana, especially in the run-up to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. His decision underscores the complexities of political realignments and the enduring influence of ideological affinity in shaping India’s political landscape.
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