By Reshma Pasupuleti 
The political landscape in Haryana witnessed a significant shift as Hisar MP Brijendra Singh of the BJP announced his departure from the ruling party, citing “compelling political reasons”. His decision to join the Congress has not only altered the state’s political dynamics but also raised speculations about his father Bijender Singh’s potential switch to the grand old party.
Brijendra Singh highlighted ideological differences, particularly concerning farmers’ issues, as a driving factor behind his move to the opposition camp. His decision resonated with his father, veteran BJP leader Chaudhary Birender Singh, who is reportedly considering following suit and joining the Congress in the near future, as per Congress leader Ajay Maken.
The father-son duo’s departure from the BJP underscores their dissent with the party’s policies, notably its alliance with the Jannayak Janata Party (JJP), led by Dushyant Chautala. Birender Singh had previously issued warnings of leaving the party if it forged ties with the JJP for the Lok Sabha polls.
Brijendra Singh’s transition to the Congress presents the party with a formidable contender in Hisar, a constituency crucial in Haryana politics. With Birender Singh, a prominent figure with a political legacy, potentially joining the Congress ranks, party leaders are optimistic about their prospects not only in Haryana but also in neighboring Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, where Jat population holds significant sway.
The move has been welcomed by senior Congress leaders, including Kumari Selja, who expressed optimism about Birender Singh’s eventual return to the party fold. Birender’s political journey from the Congress to the BJP in 2014 was marked by complex dynamics and power struggles within the state’s political landscape.
Observers view Birender’s prospective return to the Congress positively, albeit with reservations about potential factionalism within the party. Despite apprehensions, leaders like Selja, Randeep Singh Surjewala, and Kiran Choudhury are aligning efforts, recognizing the need for unity in navigating the state’s political landscape.
Birender Singh’s political trajectory, characterized by his close association with senior leaders like Sonia Gandhi and his diverse roles within the party, underscores the evolving dynamics within Haryana politics. While his return signifies a reunion with his political roots, it also reflects the changing tides of power and allegiance within the state.
As the Congress braces itself for the upcoming electoral challenges, the defection of a sitting BJP MP underscores the party’s potential resurgence and sets the stage for renewed political discourse in Haryana.