As the single-phase voting concludes for 90 assembly seats in Haryana, the political implications of this fierce electoral contest go far beyond the state’s borders. For the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), this assembly election is not just about retaining power for a record third time; it’s a crucial test of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity and governance at the national level. The stakes are particularly high as the BJP seeks a historic third consecutive term in a state that has become a political battleground these days.
The backdrop for these elections includes a year marked by significant challenges for the BJP. After nearly a decade under former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, the party chose to reply on Nayab Singh Saini, who faces the daunting task of security votes for his party amid brewing discontent. The BJP’s campaign is rooted in its development narrative, but it must confront the growing anti-incumbency sentiment in the state, especially around issues like farmers’ protests, wrestlers’ stir and controversial schemes like ‘Agnipath’.
On the flip side, the Congress party, which has been out of power for ten years, is hoping for a potential comeback. Buoyed by a decent showing in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where it won five of ten seats, Congress is banking on voters’ rising frustration with the BJP government. However, an internal power struggle threatens to undermine its efforts, with factions led by Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Kumari Selja appearing disunited. Their failure to present a united front could dampen their chances of capitalizing on any anti-BJP sentiment.
The political landscape in Haryana is complicated further by the presence of regional parties. Dushyant Chautala’s Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), which was previously allied with the BJP, has contested independently, hoping to regain ground after the split. Meanwhile, Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) contested all seats solo, attempting to tap into discontent among voters from both major parties. Their entry into the fray could siphon off crucial votes, potentially acting as a kingmaker in a tight race.
In this multi-cornered battle, the historical voting patterns offer insights into what’s at stake. The BJP secured 40 seats in 2019, with Congress claiming 31. As the parties campaigned vigorously, the outcome on October 8 will reveal whether voters are ready to support the BJP’s continued rule or if they will embrace Congress’s call for change.
With 1,031 candidates, including 101 women, vying for 90 seats, every vote will be crucial. The heavy security measures in place signal the importance of this election, not only for Haryana but also as a bellwether for the upcoming national elections. As PM Modi rallied across the state to reinforce the BJP’s narrative, Congress leaders were equally determined to highlight perceived governance failures.
The results will not just determine who governs Haryana but will also dominate the corridors of power in Delhi. If the BJP fails to secure a strong mandate, it could signal a shift in public sentiment that might send ripples across the country, challenging PM Modi’s grip over power. Conversely, if Congress manages a comeback, it could reignite its political fortunes and alter the narrative ahead of the next general elections.
As the votes are cast, the future of Haryana’s political landscape hangs in the balance. Will the BJP continue its dominance, or will Congress find its way back? The answer will emerge soon – on October 8 – the day votes polled in Haryana will be counted.
