PUNJAB News Daily
Chandigarh, April 16

The Congress party in Haryana on Thursday suspended five of its MLAs from primary membership with immediate effect over alleged cross-voting during last month’s Rajya Sabha elections.

The legislators facing action include Naraingarh MLA Shalli Chaudhary, Sadhaura MLA Renu Bala, Punhana MLA Mohammad Illyas, Hathin MLA Mohammad Israil, and Ratia MLA Jarnail Singh. The party had earlier accused them of defying the official directive during the polls.

Haryana Congress chief Rao Narender Singh said the decision was taken following serious violations of organisational discipline. He added that the suspension was based on the recommendation of the State Disciplinary Action Committee (DAC) and was approved by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

According to the party, the MLAs’ actions amounted to anti-party activities, as they allegedly voted against the Congress’ authorised candidate in the Rajya Sabha elections. Singh emphasised that maintaining discipline within the party is paramount and warned that any deviation from the party line would invite strict action.

The DAC, led by chairman Dharampal Malik, had examined the replies submitted by the MLAs to show-cause notices before recommending suspension. While some of the legislators denied the allegations, the committee found their conduct inconsistent with party norms.

The Rajya Sabha elections, held on March 16, saw BJP’s Sanjay Bhatia win comfortably, while Congress candidate Karamvir Singh Boudh secured the second seat after a close contest. The alleged cross-voting and invalidation of four Congress votes reportedly impacted the party’s expected performance. With Agencies input