The Congress party’s underwhelming performance in the Haryana assembly elections has not only disrupted its political momentum but also stirred discontent among its allies. Both the National Conference and Shiv Sena-UBT have voiced their frustrations, signaling cracks within the alliance just as Maharashtra and Jharkhand gear up for crucial state elections this year, with Delhi and Bihar following next year.
National Conference leader Omar Abdullah pointed out that the Congress itself would be disheartened by its poor showing in Haryana, describing it as a “huge shock.” He suggested that the Congress needs to undertake a serious assessment and implement corrective measures ahead of the upcoming elections.
Shiv Sena-UBT, a key ally in Maharashtra, sharply criticized Congress in its mouthpiece Saamana, accusing it of arrogance and a failure to properly manage its coalition partners. Shiv Sena-UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi called for introspection within the Congress, while senior leader Sanjay Raut slammed the party’s overconfidence, which he believes cost them the Haryana election.
With Maharashtra’s 288-seat assembly polls looming, Congress’ performance will be critical, as it contests alongside Shiv Sena-UBT and NCP-Sharad Pawar. Allies are now calling for strategic adjustments, warning that failure to do so could jeopardize their chances against the BJP in upcoming elections.