Haryana: INLD attacks ex-CM Hooda over ‘vote chori’ allegations

Karnal: Haryana’s INLD leader Abhay Chautala has strongly criticized former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda over “vote chori” allegations, claiming that Hooda helped the BJP during the assembly elections. Speaking to reporters in Karnal on Monday, Chautala said that the Congress first stole votes from INLD, and then Hooda’s actions allowed the BJP to benefit, leading to Congress’s failure to return to power.

Chautala alleged that Hooda and his son supported independent candidates against Congress winners, promising them government posts once the Congress returned to power. “There is no bigger thief than the Congress. Our votes were stolen by the Congress, and then Hooda helped BJP by backing independent candidates,” he said.

He cited the example of Bijender Singh contesting from the Uchana constituency. Three independent candidates together received 60,000 votes, and Singh lost by just 35 votes. Chautala claimed Hooda and his son were behind these independent candidates, helping BJP gain advantage while Congress lost crucial seats.

Chautala’s remarks came as he chaired party meetings in Karnal. State president Rampal Majra and other leaders were also present. Chautala invited party workers and supporters to celebrate Devi Lal Jayanti on September 25.

The INLD leader’s comments highlight the political tension in Haryana, where opposition parties are accusing each other of electoral manipulation. Chautala’s remarks were a direct attack on Hooda’s role in influencing the assembly election outcome by allegedly helping the BJP indirectly.

CBI investigations and other political issues

Chautala and other INLD leaders also discussed the ongoing CBI investigation into the Bhiwani woman’s death case. State president Rampal Majra commented that nothing substantial has come out of the CBI probe so far. He added that the CBI is also investigating former INLD chief Nafe Singh Rathi, but even after two years, the case has not been concluded. “If you want to suppress any case, then give it to the CBI,” Majra said, expressing frustration over the slow pace of investigations.

The comments by Chautala and Majra indicate the party’s concerns over transparency in law enforcement and political accountability. They emphasized that opposition parties should not engage in vote manipulation and that voters’ rights must be respected in all elections.

Chautala stressed that Congress’s alleged interference in the voting process and Hooda’s support for independent candidates allowed BJP to form the government. This, according to him, undermined the mandate of the people and prevented Congress from regaining power. He argued that voters’ choice should be protected and that political leaders must act responsibly during elections.

The INLD leader also outlined the party’s plans for grassroots engagement and political mobilization. He urged party cadres to participate actively in local programs and upcoming events, including the Devi Lal Jayanti celebrations. These events are seen as an opportunity to strengthen party unity and reach out to voters across Haryana.

Chautala’s statements reflect the larger political rivalry in the state, where accusations of “vote chori” and electoral malpractice have been a recurring issue. The focus on Hooda’s alleged actions highlights the continuing tensions between the INLD and Congress, and the role of independent candidates in affecting election outcomes.

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Meanwhile, the discussion about CBI investigations shows the INLD’s concern over timely justice and accountability. Leaders argued that delays in high-profile cases reduce public confidence in law enforcement and governance. By pointing out slow investigations, INLD hopes to press for faster action and stricter oversight by investigative agencies.

The political debate over vote theft and election manipulation has intensified in Haryana. INLD’s remarks about Hooda’s involvement in helping BJP and undermining Congress reflect the ongoing struggles between major parties in the state. Chautala emphasized that such actions must be challenged and voters’ trust restored.

In summary, INLD leader Abhay Chautala has publicly criticized ex-CM Hooda for allegedly supporting BJP candidates and facilitating “vote chori” in Haryana assembly elections. He also highlighted concerns about delays in CBI investigations, particularly in the Bhiwani woman’s death case and former INLD chief Nafe Singh Rathi’s case. The party is calling for transparency, electoral accountability, and active engagement with voters, while preparing for upcoming political events like Devi Lal Jayanti to strengthen its presence in the state.