New Delhi: For those familiar with Haryanas political landscape over the last ten years, it may be difficult to imagine the turmoil the state once endured under Congress rule. During Bhupinder Singh Hoodas tenure, Haryana was marked by favoritism toward a particular community, leading to widespread inequality, fear, and corruption. The states administration seemed entirely controlled by this community, leaving others to suffer in silence.Climate of favoritism and discriminationDuring the Congress regime, a specific community was given preferential treatment, leading to blatant discrimination against others. This favoritism created an oppressive environment for those who did not belong to the favored group. The system of kharchi-parchi (bribery and nepotism) had become so deeply ingrained in the states operations that only those willing to pay the highest price or those with the right connections were granted opportunities. Jobs and resources were largely reserved for members of this community, sidelining everyone else.Systematic control and marginalizationThe dominance of one community over the states systems was all-encompassing. From government jobs to administrative power, they controlled the lions share of opportunities, while people from other communities were systematically marginalized. The government and administrative machinery were so entrenched in serving this particular group that those from other communities were left with no representation, and no one to advocate for their rights. This deep-rooted control left many feeling helpless, as they watched their chances of economic and social progress slip away.Unchecked power and growing fearPerhaps most alarming was the level of immunity granted to members of this dominant community. Even in the face of criminal activity, law enforcement appeared powerless. The state governments reluctance to take action against this group emboldened its members, who felt confident that their misdeeds would go unpunished. As a result, they became increasingly unruly, knowing that the police would not dare to register complaints against them.This created an atmosphere of fear, particularly for those from other communities, who found themselves terrorized and powerless. There was a growing sense of hopelessness, as people realized they could not rely on the police or government for protection or justice.Fear for womens safetyWomen, especially sisters and daughters, bore the brunt of this oppressive environment. The fear of violence and harassment kept them confined within their homes. With no hope for safety or equal opportunities, they had little choice but to remain in the shadows, far from the freedoms they deserved. The era became a dark period for womens independence and rights, as the dominant communitys reign further exacerbated the challenges they faced.Social fabric torn apartUnder Hoodas Congress government, the social fabric of Haryana was severely damaged. The administrations singular focus on appeasing one community destroyed the sense of equality and fairness, sidelining the rest of the population. This era of discrimination and domination left deep scars on the states communities, fueling frustration and division.
