In a political turn of events, former Member of Parliament Ashok Tanwar has rejoined the Congress Party just hours after actively campaigning for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This sudden shift has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum, with analysts and party members alike questioning the motives and timing behind Tanwar’s decision.

Once a key figure in Haryana politics, Ashok Tanwar has had a tumultuous political career marked by high-profile departures and returns. His reentry into the Congress comes at a crucial time as the party gears up for state and national elections.

Ashok Tanwar: A Brief Political Background

Ashok Tanwar, a seasoned politician from Haryana, was a Congress Member of Parliament from Sirsa and served as the Haryana Congress chief from 2014 to 2019. Known for his strong organizational skills and grassroots support, Tanwar played a vital role in shaping Congress’ strategy in Haryana during his tenure.

However, his association with the party took a hit when internal disputes with senior Congress leadership prompted his departure in 2019. After exiting the Congress, Tanwar floated his own political outfit, the Apna Bharat Morcha, before aligning himself with the BJP in the 2019 general elections.

Tanwar’s Campaigning for BJP: A Surprising Twist

In a surprising move, Tanwar was seen campaigning for the BJP just hours before announcing his return to the Congress. This unusual switch of allegiance has sparked a wave of speculation regarding his political motivations.

Why Was Tanwar Campaigning for the BJP?

Tanwar’s association with the BJP began during the 2019 elections when he parted ways with the Congress due to internal conflicts. His recent activities, including openly seeking votes for BJP candidates, suggest that he had developed a working relationship with the BJP.

Political Calculation or Personal Conviction?

Analysts believe that Tanwar’s actions might reflect political calculations rather than personal conviction. The decision to campaign for the BJP could have been influenced by the political atmosphere in Haryana, where regional dynamics play a crucial role in election outcomes.

Why Did Ashok Tanwar Rejoin Congress?

1. Dissatisfaction with BJP’s Internal Dynamics

Some political observers speculate that Tanwar may have become disillusioned with the BJP’s internal structure and policies, leading to his decision to rejoin the Congress. The BJP’s strong central leadership style might not have sat well with a regional player like Tanwar, who values autonomy and grassroots engagement.

2. Congress’ Open Arms Policy

Tanwar’s return is also a testament to the Congress’ willingness to welcome back leaders who have previously left the party. Congress has been open to reconciliation in recent years, especially with high-profile leaders like Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot mending their differences.

3. Strategic Timing Ahead of Elections

The timing of Tanwar’s reentry into Congress could not be more significant. With Haryana elections looming on the horizon, Tanwar’s rejoining gives Congress a much-needed boost in the state, where factionalism and internal strife have affected the party’s prospects.

Impact of Tanwar’s Return on Haryana Politics

Ashok Tanwar’s return to the Congress is bound to shake up the political scene in Haryana. Here’s how it could affect various stakeholders:

1. Strengthening Congress in Haryana

Tanwar’s stronghold in Sirsa and his ability to mobilize grassroots support can provide a much-needed advantage to Congress in the upcoming elections. His return could help consolidate the party’s base in the state, which has seen dwindling support in recent years.

2. BJP’s Setback in Haryana

The BJP, which has been positioning itself as a dominant player in Haryana, may see a minor setback with Tanwar’s departure. His campaign efforts for the BJP will now be overshadowed by his return to Congress, making it harder for the BJP to retain its stronghold in the state.

3. Recalibrating Regional Political Alliances

Tanwar’s switch could also prompt other regional players to reconsider their alliances ahead of the elections. His rejoining of Congress signals that the party is focusing on rebuilding ties with estranged leaders to improve its standing in Haryana.

Ashok Tanwar’s Statement on Rejoining Congress

In a statement following his return to Congress, Ashok Tanwar expressed his belief that the Congress party remains the best platform for addressing the concerns of the people of Haryana. He noted that despite his brief stint with other political outfits, his roots remained with the Congress, and he is committed to strengthening the party in the state.

Tanwar’s public acknowledgment of past grievances also signals a willingness to start afresh, focusing on unity and collaboration within the party to achieve electoral success.

Congress’ Reaction to Tanwar’s Return

1. Warm Welcome from Senior Leaders

Senior Congress leaders have warmly welcomed Ashok Tanwar back into the fold. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were reportedly involved in talks to facilitate Tanwar’s return, reflecting the party’s broader strategy of reconciling with former members.

2. Rebuilding the Haryana Congress Unit

Tanwar’s return is seen as a significant step in rebuilding the fractured Haryana Congress unit. His leadership and organizational skills are expected to play a key role in reviving the party’s presence in the state.

Tanwar’s Future in Congress: What Lies Ahead?

The road ahead for Ashok Tanwar in Congress will be closely watched by political analysts and party members alike. Will he take on a leadership role once again? Or will he adopt a more behind-the-scenes position, helping the party navigate the complex political landscape of Haryana?

One thing is clear: Tanwar’s return adds an interesting layer to the upcoming elections, and his political journey within Congress will be a key storyline to follow.

Conclusion: A Political Comeback to Watch

Ashok Tanwar’s reentry into the Congress after campaigning for the BJP marks a significant development in Haryana’s political landscape. With his return, both the Congress and Tanwar stand to benefit as they prepare for the upcoming elections. For Tanwar, it’s a second chance to influence the direction of the Congress in Haryana, while for Congress, it’s an opportunity to strengthen its position in the state.

As the political climate heats up, Ashok Tanwar’s actions will be closely watched, and his role within the Congress will undoubtedly have an impact on the party’s future prospects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why did Ashok Tanwar leave the Congress Party in 2019?

Ashok Tanwar left the Congress in 2019 due to internal disputes and disagreements with senior leadership, which led him to form his own political outfit, the Apna Bharat Morcha.

2. What role did Ashok Tanwar play in BJP’s campaign?

Tanwar was actively campaigning for BJP candidates in Haryana, seeking votes for them just hours before his rejoining Congress.

3. How will Tanwar’s return impact Congress in Haryana?

Tanwar’s return is expected to strengthen Congress’ position in Haryana, especially in terms of grassroots support and leadership within the state unit.

4. Will Ashok Tanwar hold a leadership position in Congress again?

While it’s unclear what specific role Tanwar will take on, his reentry into Congress suggests that he could play a key role in the party’s strategy for the upcoming elections.

5. What was the response of senior Congress leaders to Tanwar’s return?

Senior Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, welcomed Ashok Tanwar back into the party, signaling a reconciliatory approach toward estranged leaders.