INLD’s show of strength attempt to regain ground in Hooda citadel

Indian National Lok Dal’s (INLD) “Samman Rally” held in Rohtak on Thursday has not only sparked political debate in the region but has also given BJP leaders an opportunity to launch a fresh attack on the Congress, especially former Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda.

The rally gained significance as it was not only a show of strength by the INLD but also considered as an attempt to regain its lost ground in Rohtak, which is widely regarded as the Hooda family’s stronghold.

Former minister and BJP state spokesperson Krishan Murti Hooda, while addressing a press conference on Friday, said the INLD’s successful show and induction of several Opposition leaders into the party was a clear indication that the Congress was losing ground in Rohtak, where party had won the Lok Sabha and all four Assembly segment.

“The INLD has dealt a major setback, particularly to Bhupinder Hooda and his son, MP Deepender Hooda, who had been questioning the INLD’s intention to hold the rally in Rohtak. Bhupinder Hooda should consider retiring from politics to allow young leaders to come forward,” he added. In response to a question, Krishan Murti said he had called the press conference to counter claims made by certain political leaders claiming that the BJP supported the INLD rally to ensure its success.

“I want to make it clear that the BJP had no role in the INLD rally. No BJP worker or leader participated in it. In fact, senior Congress leader and former minister Prof Sampat Singh shared the stage with the INLD leaders. It clearly reflects the current standing of the Congress in the prevailing scenario,” Krishan Murti added.

Naveen Rathee Bapdoda, another BJP leader, said the INLD’s rally had put pressure on Congress leaders to defend their stronghold, especially after the induction of several local leaders.

Jitendra Bhardwaj, a political observer, said, “It appears that Rohtak will remain in the political spotlight until the next Assembly poll, as both the INLD and BJP have intensified their activities in the region.”