Haryana Congress meet row: MLAs absent, cross-vote shadow

March 30, 2026

New Delhi/Chandigarh: A crucial meeting of the Haryana Congress Legislature Party (CLP) held in Delhi witnessed partial attendance, intensifying political tensions within the party amid the ongoing cross-voting controversy from the recent Rajya Sabha elections.

Only 30 of 32 MLAs Attend Meeting

According to party sources, only 30 out of 32 Congress MLAs attended the meeting convened by senior leadership in Delhi. The absence of some legislators has raised questions about unity within the party at a time when it is grappling with internal dissent.

The meeting was aimed at reviewing the political situation following the Rajya Sabha elections and discussing disciplinary action against MLAs accused of crossvoting.

Five MLAs Not Invited Amid Disciplinary Action

Notably, five Congress MLAs were reportedly not invited to the meeting. These legislators are already under the scanner for alleged cross-voting or invalid voting during the Rajya Sabha polls held earlier this month.

The party had issued show-cause notices to these MLAs, and the Delhi meeting was seen as a step toward deciding further disciplinary measures. The Congress leadership is expected to take a final call after reviewing their responses.

Cross-Voting Row Deepens Crisis

The controversy stems from the March 16 Rajya Sabha elections, where allegations of cross-voting and irregularities surfaced, creating a political storm in Haryana.

Despite the Congress candidate managing to secure victory, the episode exposed internal cracks within the party. Political observers believe that the issue could have long-term implications for party discipline and electoral strategy in the state.

Vinesh Phogat Also Absent

Adding to the intrigue, Congress MLA and wrestler-turned-politician Vinesh Phogat was also absent from the meeting. While no official reason was provided for her absence, it has further fuelled speculation about internal differences or logistical constraints.

Her absence is significant given her prominence and recent entry into active politics, making her a key face in the party’s Haryana unit.

Meeting Led by Senior Leadership

The meeting was held under the leadership of senior Congress figures, including Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda.

The leadership discussed strategies to maintain unity, address dissent, and strengthen the party ahead of future political challenges in the state.

Sources indicate that the central leadership is closely monitoring developments and may take strict action to send a strong message against indiscipline.

Focus on Party Unity and Strategy

The Congress is attempting to project unity after the controversy, but the absence of several MLAs and the exclusion of others highlight the challenges it faces internally.

Political analysts believe that how the party handles the current crisis will be crucial in determining its prospects in upcoming elections and its ability to counter the ruling BJP in Haryana.

The Delhi CLP meeting has underscored the growing internal tensions within the Haryana Congress. With disciplinary action looming and questions over unity persisting, the party faces a critical test in managing dissent while preparing for future political battles.