Congress Leader Randeep Surjewala Slams Haryana Government Over Multiple Issues
Senior Congress functionary and Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Surjewala launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Haryana government on Friday, accusing it of systemic discrimination in public recruitment and neglecting critical sectors like education and agriculture. Speaking to the media in Bhiwani after visiting the house of former MP Jangbir Singh following his death, Surjewala outlined a series of grievances that he claims are crippling the state's development and youth prospects.
Allegations of Discrimination in HPSC Recruitment
Surjewala directly targeted the Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC), alleging deliberate discrimination in filling vacancies. He claimed that posts reserved for scheduled castes, backward classes, the general category, and economically weaker sections are being left unfilled, depriving qualified candidates of employment opportunities. "The BJP government does not consider the youth of Haryana worthy of jobs," he stated, contrasting this with Haryana's youth who, according to him, excel in central services but face neglect at the state level.
Education Sector in Dire Straits
Highlighting a severe crisis in education, Surjewala provided alarming statistics on teacher vacancies:
- Nearly 60% of teacher positions in schools remain unfilled.
- Approximately 77% of principal posts are vacant.
- Around 60% of professor roles at the college level are unoccupied.
He further accused the government of financially weakening universities by burdening them with loans, calling it a "deliberate attempt to dismantle the education system in Haryana." This, he argued, undermines the future of students and the state's intellectual capital.
Rising Prices and New Taxes Burden Citizens
On economic issues, Surjewala pointed to increasing costs of essential items and the imposition of new taxes. He specifically mentioned hikes in:
- Collector rates
- Toll taxes
- Commercial LPG cylinder prices
He warned that fuel prices are likely to rise further after the assembly elections in West Bengal, adding to the financial strain on households and businesses.
Criticism of Wheat Procurement Rules
Surjewala slammed the new wheat procurement rules, which require:
- Photographs of tractor-trolleys
- Biometric verification of farmers
- Restrictions on bringing produce to mandis beyond fixed hours (6 am to 8 pm)
He alleged that these measures are designed to weaken the minimum support price (MSP) system, putting farmers at a disadvantage and threatening agricultural sustainability.
Action Promised Against Cross-Voting MLAs
Responding to questions about cross-voting by Congress MLAs in the March 16 Rajya Sabha elections, Surjewala asserted that action would soon be taken against those involved. This statement underscores internal party discipline efforts amid political tensions.
Surjewala's comprehensive critique paints a picture of a state grappling with employment disparities, educational neglect, economic pressures, and agricultural challenges, setting the stage for heightened political discourse in Haryana.
