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From Celebration to Despair: Congress’s Rollercoaster Ride in Haryana Elections

October 8, 2024, 12:49 pm

As the counting of votes for the Haryana Assembly elections commenced around 9 AM, Congress initially surged ahead of the BJP, prompting celebrations at the Congress headquarters in Delhi, complete with jalebis and dhols. However, within just an hour, the BJP had turned the tide, ultimately positioning itself for what appears to be its largest victory in Haryana, defying exit poll predictions by a significant margin. Now, the BJP headquarters is alive with excitement as preparations for celebratory laddoos are underway, while Congress leaders cling to hope for a last-minute turnaround. Despite several rounds of counting remaining, the overall picture seems unlikely to shift significantly. Here are five key factors contributing to Congress’s setback:

1. Internal Infighting: Congress had previously secured 31 seats in the 2019 elections, but the latest trends suggest it has failed to improve its standing significantly. Internal conflicts and power struggles among top leaders undermined their campaign efforts. Prior to the elections, party leaders expressed confidence in a victory, with many vying for the Chief Minister position. A visible power struggle between veteran Bhupinder Singh Hooda and senior leader Kumari Selja became apparent, with Selja openly positioning herself for the CM race. While the party attempted to present a united front, it was evident that it was a divided house. Hooda was given considerable leeway in candidate selection and alliance decisions, but this strategy did not yield the desired results.

2. Impact of Regional Forces and Independents: Although Congress has a higher vote share than the BJP, it struggled to translate this into seats. Many constituencies showed narrow margins, indicating that regional parties and Independents siphoned off anti-incumbency votes, ultimately benefiting the BJP. However, regional parties like the INLD and BSP only managed to lead in one seat each, with four Independents also ahead.

3. Anti-Jat Consolidation: Congress’s focus on consolidating Jat votes under Hooda may have inadvertently led to a counter-consolidation of non-Jat votes in favor of the BJP. The term “Jatshahi” (Jat supremacy) became a recurring theme leading up to the elections, suggesting that a Congress victory would restore the influential community’s power in the state. As a result, other communities seemed to overwhelmingly support the ruling party.

4. BJP’s Strategic Groundwork: Poll analysts had predicted a potential loss for the BJP in Haryana, but quiet groundwork helped shift the momentum in their favor. Union minister and BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan was tasked with managing the party’s campaign for this challenging election, and early trends indicate he succeeded effectively. The BJP’s organizational prowess has once again turned the tables on Congress.

5. BJP’s Urban Dominance: Over the past decade, the BJP has solidified its support in urban areas like Gurgaon and Faridabad. Congress had anticipated a sweep in rural regions, but this expectation did not materialize as hoped. Currently, the BJP is leading in key urban constituencies such as Gurgaon, Faridabad, and Ballabhgarh.

These factors combined illustrate the challenges Congress faced in the Haryana elections and underline the need for a thorough reevaluation of strategies moving forward.

Congress Leader Ashok Tanwar Expresses Confidence in Party’s Success in Haryana Elections

October 5, 2024, 1:42 pm

After casting his vote in the ongoing Haryana Assembly elections, Congress leader Ashok Tanwar expressed strong optimism about the party’s performance, declaring, “Congress will secure a minimum of 75 seats. There is an atmosphere of change, and Congress will definitely achieve great success.”

Tanwar emphasized the party’s commitment to representing all sections of society, stating, “The Congress party stands with everyone, and this mandate is a clear indication against those who have failed to meet the expectations of the people over the last decade.”

#WATCH | Sirsa, Haryana: After casting his vote, Congress leader Ashok Tanwar says, “Congress will get a minimum of 75 seats. There is an atmosphere of change and Congress will definitely get great success… Congress party stands with all sections and this mandate is against… https://t.co/wI8etSjDFX pic.twitter.com/PT4qAkZGbT

— ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2024

As voting continues across Haryana, Tanwar’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within the Congress party as they aim to reclaim power in a state where they have faced significant challenges in recent years. He highlighted the importance of voter turnout and the party’s efforts to engage with citizens about their concerns.

The Assembly elections, which feature 90 constituencies, are crucial for both Congress and the incumbent parties as they seek to address issues like unemployment, development, and law and order. Tanwar’s remarks resonate with many voters eager for change in the political landscape of Haryana.

As the results will be announced shortly, all eyes are on the state to see if Congress can fulfill its ambitious targets and regain its foothold in Haryana politics.

Haryana Elections: 225 paramilitary, 60K security deployed to tighten security

October 2, 2024, 5:22 pm

With the Haryana Assembly elections set for October 5, security has been significantly heightened across the state. Authorities have deployed 225 paramilitary companies and 60,000 security personnel to maintain order during the electoral process. Additionally, 11,000 Special Police Officers (SPOs) are on standby to assist in ensuring a secure voting environment.

Focus on High-Risk Areas

According to Haryana’s Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapoor, the Nuh district has been identified as a highly sensitive area, prompting the deployment of 13 paramilitary companies there. Kapoor reported that over ₹60 crore has been seized across the state, with Gurugram, Faridabad, and Ambala recording the highest amounts. The police have also recently confiscated 27,000 liters of illegal liquor and dismantled a fake liquor factory.

Encouraging Voter Participation

DGP Kapoor emphasized the importance of public cooperation, urging citizens to participate in the electoral process in large numbers. “Democracy requires public cooperation,” he stated.

Haryana’s Chief Electoral Officer, Pankaj Agarwal, announced that state, district, and assembly control rooms will be established to oversee webcasting at polling stations. In a video conference from Chandigarh, Agarwal reviewed the election arrangements and confirmed that the Election Commission of India will monitor the process through webcasting.

Agarwal warned that polling agents will only be allowed to engage in authorized activities on polling day, with strict legal repercussions for any violations. He also highlighted the need for vigilance at checkpoints to prevent the transportation of illegal liquor, narcotics, cash, and weapons during the election period.

Secure Handling of Voting Equipment

The Chief Electoral Officer instructed that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) must be securely stored in strong rooms before being transferred to polling booths. After voting, EVMs should be transported under stringent security measures, with vehicles equipped with GPS to ensure safe transit without stops.

Haryana’s elections will determine the state’s 90-member legislative assembly, with vote counting scheduled for October 8.

Gehlot, Other Rajasthan Congress Leaders Enter Fray To Rally In Haryana Elections

October 1, 2024, 3:49 am

As the Haryana elections approach, top leaders from the Rajasthan Congress have ramped up their campaign efforts. Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot is leading the charge as a senior observer and star campaigner, holding public meetings in Haryana since last week.

In the final two days of campaigning, several key figures joined the effort, including Rajasthan MP Pramod Tiwari, state president Govind Singh Dotasara, Leader of the Opposition Tikaram Julie, national general secretary Jitendra Singh, Sachin Pilot, and former RTDC president Dharmendra Rathore. Together, they are working to bolster the Congress campaign in Haryana.

Congress leaders are optimistic about a strong showing in the upcoming Haryana elections, claiming a “tsunami” of support for the party. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot addressed three public meetings on Monday, emphasizing that leaders from neighboring Rajasthan are in high demand in Haryana.

Former RTDC President Dharmendra Rathore stated that the people of Haryana, frustrated by issues like inflation, unemployment, anti-farmer policies, and the BJP’s mismanagement, are ready to support a Congress government. He criticized the BJP, saying it has lost the trust of the people and is not seen as a competitor in this election.

Gehlot campaigned for Congress candidates in several locations, including Rao Narendra Singh in Narnaul, Chiranjeevi Rao in Rewari, and Rao Dan Singh in Mahendragarh. Upon arriving at the Narnaul Police Line Ground helipad, he and MP Pramod Tiwari were warmly welcomed by Haryana Congress leaders and local officials, including MLAs and former chairpersons.

Congress Will Sweep Haryana, Says Ashok Gehlot

September 24, 2024, 2:59 am

A “Congress storm” is brewing across Haryana, said senior Congress leader former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. He said Congress will set a new victory record. In a special interview to the Daily Guardian, Gehlot, who was appointed party observer for Haryana elections, said Rahul Gandhi’s initiative to open ‘Mohabbat ki Dukan’ is effecting a change across the country, and its impact is now evident in Haryana following the Lok Sabha elections. He credits Rahul’s resolution, along with the strategies of national president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Priyanka Gandhi, for the likely change in party’s fortunes.

Stressing that the Congress is contesting elections united, Gehlot said the public is fed up with the 10 years of BJP rule. The public will answer the negative propaganda that BJP is doing about the party’s senior leader Selja on the day of voting. Selja herself has answered that BJP should not spread confusion. Gehlot said in Congress no one is made CM face in advance. The central leadership of the party approves the decision taken in the meeting of the legislative party after the elections. Excerpts from the interview:

Q: As a senior observer of Haryana elections, what is your assessment?
A: Based on my observations, it seems quite clear that the BJP is going to face a crushing defeat in Haryana. I believe they are likely to experience a substantial defeat in the upcoming elections. Many people in the state are frustrated with what they have seen in ten years of misrule under BJP leadership and have decided to support Congress. Regardless of the propaganda efforts the BJP may employ, I don’t think they will be able to influence or sway the public opinion. Both former Chief Minister Manohar Lal and current Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini seem unable to connect with the voters, who appear determined not to be misled any longer.

Q) On what basis are you saying that Congress will win?
A: See, the resolution taken by our leader Rahul Gandhi to open ‘Mohabbat ki Dukan’ during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, its effect was visible in the Lok Sabha elections. People have regained faith in Congress. The same effect is now visible in Haryana as well. Rahul’s resolution to open ‘Mohabbat ki Dukan’ is also going to play a big role in the victory of Congress. People have now started giving more importance to brotherhood than the divisive politics of BJP.

You’ll see that every section of Haryana is unhappy with BJP’s rule. Take the farmers, for example. For the first time in independent India, they sat under the open sky during harsh winter, rain, and summer. Tragically, hundreds lost their lives, yet the Modi government showed indifference. To make matters worse, farmers were denied entry into the capital to voice their demands. This level of disregard has deeply affected the agricultural community and has contributed to their growing frustration with the current government.
In such a situation, you tell why the farmer will vote for BJP. Farmers have also expressed their displeasure in the Lok Sabha elections. Now talk about wrestler daughters. In my political life of more than 45 years, I do not remember that the country’s farmers were not allowed to enter the capital. This kind of misbehaviour happened with women wrestlers on the streets of the capital. Women have not forgotten this insult. The youth who want to join the army are angry with the Agniveer scheme. The common man is angry with unemployment, inflation, corruption and the ruined law and order. The public has seen the rule of Congress, so the public has already made up its mind to make Congress win. Now, no matter how many parties contest the elections, nothing is going to happen.

Q: It seems Congress is dealing with infighting instead of focusing on elections. Selja has kept a distance from campaigning. Randeep Surjewala is limited to campaigning for his son. BJP is making offers to angry leaders of AAP.
A: Look, there is no fight within Congress. This is a theory created by media and BJP. The party is fighting the elections collectively. You will soon see many big leaders like Selja and Randeep Singh Surjewala campaigning for the elections. The BJP finds itself in a position similar to a frustrated cat scratching a pillar. Knowing they’re unlikely to succeed, they attempt to create doubt about Congress. Selja is a senior and strong leader of Congress. Selja herself has given a befitting reply to BJP that she is a Congress person and will remain a Congress person. She is not going anywhere. I would say to BJP people that now the days are over. The politics of sabotage is not going to work in Haryana. The public will give the answer on the day of voting. I would especially like to tell former CM Manohal Lal sahab that he should think more about himself than our leader Selja about what will happen to his party after 8 October.

Q: However, during ticket distribution, it became evident that more supporters of former Chief Minister Bhupendra Singh Hooda were given the tickets. There are also claims that he may become the Chief Minister again, which has led to dissatisfaction among other leaders. What are your thoughts on this?
A: I have already said that the media and BJP talk according to their own will. Then there is a discussion on it. I will tell you how tickets are given in Congress. Names come from the state. A proper survey of the winners is conducted. Then the scrutiny committee considers them. Many times two strong contenders come for one seat. Then the central election committee considers. In that, the winner is given a chance. There is no point in giving ticket to one person. Those who were going to win are given tickets. Our party or any leader has never said that more tickets were given to the supporters of so and so. You people decide everything. As far as the question of Chief Minister is concerned, in our party the winning MLAs and the central leadership decide who will be the Chief Minister. In the central leadership, former Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, National President Mallikarjun Kharge and Priyanka Gandhi etc. take the decision together. As far as Bhupendra Singh Hooda is concerned, he is the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly. At the time of elections, the role of State President Uday Bhan and Leader of Opposition becomes important. The role of the leader of the AAP becomes important.

Congress’ 7 Guarantees for Haryana Assembly Polls 2024

September 18, 2024, 8:58 pm

As the Haryana assembly elections approach, the Congress party has rolled out seven major promises that will be part of its manifesto. These include bringing back the Old Pension Scheme, creating two lakh jobs, conducting a caste survey, and offering 300 units of free electricity along with free medical treatment up to Rs 25 lakh.

Party Chief Mallikarjun Kharge announced these guarantees, which aim to benefit women, youth, the poor, and farmers. Key highlights include:

For Women: A monthly allowance of Rs 2,000 for women above 18 and gas cylinders at a reduced price of Rs 500.

Social Security: Increased pensions for the elderly, disabled, and widows to Rs 6,000.

For Youth: Commitment to provide 2 lakh confirmed jobs and initiatives to create a drug-free Haryana.

For Families: 300 units of free electricity and free medical treatment up to Rs 25 lakh.

For Farmers: A legal guarantee of minimum support price and quick compensation for crop losses.

For the Poor: Affordable housing with a ‘Rs 10 gaz plot’ and a two-room flat for Rs 3.5 lakh.

For Backward Classes: A caste survey and raising the creamy layer limit to Rs 10 lakh.

Also read: BJP MP Stands by Allegations of Illegal Land Allotment to Mallikarjun Kharge’s Trust

The elections for the 90-member Haryana legislative assembly are set for October 5, with results to be announced on October 8. Congress leaders, including Haryana Congress chief Udai Bhan, are confident about winning and promise to restore Haryana to its former glory as a leading state in sports, agriculture, infrastructure, and investment.

Anil Vij Stakes Claim for Haryana Chief Minister Post Ahead of Elections

September 15, 2024, 6:12 pm

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Anil Vij staked his claim for the Chief Minister’s post ahead of the Haryana Assembly election on Sunday. Vij, highlighting his seniority within the party, requested consideration for the CM position.

“I am the senior-most MLA of BJP in Haryana. I have contested elections six times. I have never asked the party for anything. However, on the demand of the people, I will claim the designation of CM based on my seniority this time,” Vij stated.

He acknowledged that the final decision rests with the party’s high command, saying, “It is in the hands of the high command whether they will make me CM or not. If they make me the CM, I will change the picture of Haryana.”

Anil Vij is the BJP candidate from the Ambala Cantt Assembly constituency. He previously served as the Haryana Home Minister during Manohar Lal Khattar’s government but was removed in the recent cabinet reshuffle, which saw Nayab Singh Saini sworn in as Chief Minister.

Earlier, Vij had expressed his discontent over his exclusion from the cabinet, remarking, “It may be true that some people have made me a stranger in my party, but sometimes strangers do more work than one’s own people.” He did not attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new cabinet and left the Legislature Party meeting midway, visibly showing his dissatisfaction.

Nayab Singh Saini took the oath as Haryana CM in March, replacing Manohar Lal Khattar. When the BJP won a majority in the 90-member Haryana Assembly in 2014 for the first time, Vij was considered a strong contender for the Chief Minister’s position, but the party chose first-time MLA Khattar instead. In the 2019 polls, Khattar again surpassed Vij in the race, with Vij being allotted key portfolios like home and health.

Also read:

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Jharkhand’s ‘Kolhan Tiger’ Exit from JMM Marks Major Political Shift

The 90-member Haryana legislative assembly election will take place on October 5, with the last date for filing nominations being September 12. The vote count is scheduled for October 8. In the 2019 assembly polls, the BJP became the single largest party with 40 seats, while the Congress won 30 seats.

Haryana Elections: Karan Dev Kamboj Joins Congress, Delivering Major Blow to BJP

September 13, 2024, 3:09 pm

In a significant political development, former Haryana minister and BJP’s OBC Morcha state president, Karan Dev Kamboj, officially joined the Congress on Friday. The move, seen as a major setback for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), took place in the presence of senior Congress leaders Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Chaudhary Udaybhan.

Kamboj, a key figure within the BJP, was known for his strong influence among the OBC community in Haryana. His shift to Congress is expected to present new challenges for the BJP, which has been grappling with the delicate balance of Jat and non-Jat politics in the region. Kamboj accused the BJP of neglecting the interests of the OBC community, a factor he cited as a reason for his defection.

Given Kamboj’s significant sway within the Kamboj community, his move to Congress could boost the party’s prospects in the upcoming elections. The defection has sent ripples through Haryana’s political landscape, and it remains to be seen how this development will impact future electoral contests.

India’s Richest Woman Savitri Jindal Joins Haryana Election Race As Independent Candidate

September 13, 2024, 11:12 am

Savitri Jindal, mother of BJP MP Naveen Jindal and India’s richest woman, has officially entered the race for the Hisar Assembly seat as an independent candidate. On Thursday, the 74-year-old industrialist, wife of the late O.P. Jindal, filed her nomination, marking her return to the political spotlight. This move comes as a challenge to Haryana Minister and sitting MLA Kamal Gupta, who is contesting from the ruling BJP.

Savitri Jindal, listed by Forbes India as the richest woman in the country with a net worth of $29.1 billion, has previously represented Hisar twice in the Haryana Assembly.

Independent Candidacy After BJP Snub

Jindal’s decision to contest as an independent follows her failed attempt to secure a BJP ticket for the Haryana Assembly elections. Despite her aspirations, the BJP nominated Kamal Gupta for the Hisar seat. Addressing the situation, Jindal clarified that her candidacy against the ruling party does not equate to rebellion. She emphasized that she had only campaigned for her son, Naveen Jindal, in previous elections and had never officially joined the BJP.

“I have not taken any membership of the BJP,” Jindal stated when asked if her decision to run against the party would be seen as opposition.

Jindal’s Commitment to Hisar’s Development

Upon filing her nomination, Savitri Jindal reaffirmed her dedication to Hisar’s development and progress. “I have pledged to serve Hisar for its transformation. The people of Hisar are my family, and Om Prakash Jindal established this relationship,” she said. Jindal stressed the long-standing bond between the Jindal family and the people of Hisar, promising to maintain their trust and meet their expectations.

The Jindal family’s influence in Hisar dates back several decades, with Savitri Jindal first being elected as an MLA in 2005 as a member of the Congress party. She was reelected in 2009 and served as a minister in the Bhupinder Singh Hooda-led government until 2013. Earlier this year, both she and her son Naveen Jindal left the Congress party, with Naveen joining the BJP.

Upcoming Haryana Assembly Elections

Polling for Haryana’s 90 Assembly seats, including the hotly contested Hisar seat, will be held on October 5, with results announced on October 8. As the election approaches, Savitri Jindal’s independent bid presents a challenge to the established political dynamics in the region.

Her entry into the race has added a layer of intrigue to the Hisar constituency, known for its political significance. The coming weeks will determine how Jindal’s independent campaign resonates with the voters of Hisar and whether her family’s legacy can secure another electoral victory.

BJP rebels bring Mahendragarh, Ladwa to spotlight

September 12, 2024, 2:26 am

The Haryana Assembly elections have taken an unexpected turn as both the BJP and Congress are struggling to contain growing rebellion within their ranks over ticket allotment. Several senior leaders from both parties have filed their nominations as independents, going against the party line, creating a tumultuous atmosphere ahead of the polls.

In the BJP camp, the spotlight is on Mahendergarh, where senior leader and five-time MLA Ram Bilas Sharma has submitted his nomination papers after fearing exclusion from the official candidate list. Sharma, a former minister and state BJP president, made the move following intense deliberations with his supporters. Despite his long-standing service to the party, the delay in officially naming him as the candidate has sparked controversy, fuelled by RSS worker Kailash Chand filing his nomination as the BJP candidate, challenging Sharma’s stronghold.

The party’s internal conflict took a sharper turn when Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh came out strongly in defense of Sharma, praising him as a towering figure in the BJP’s Haryana unit. “When Ram Bilas Sharma’s name is mentioned at any BJP gathering, even the most prominent leaders seem to pale in comparison. In Haryana, no other name has flown the BJP flag higher than Ram Bilas Sharma’s,” Singh said.

“Whether the party grants him a ticket or not, no one has the right to insult him. If a case had to be filed, it should have been done earlier. Using a last-minute case as an excuse and claiming they’re still considering his candidacy is nothing short of rubbing salt in the wounds,” he added.

The discontent isn’t isolated. In Ladwa, BJP leader Sandeep Garg, frustrated by being overlooked for a ticket, has entered the fray as an independent candidate against Chief Minister Nayab Saini. Garg, a well-known businessman and social worker with significant influence among the Baniya community, could pose a serious threat to Saini’s chances, particularly if he rallies significant community support.

In Uklana, BJP candidate Anoop Dhanak is facing local backlash for allegedly ignoring farmers’ grievances during his tenure as a minister and JJP MLA. His candidacy, by overlooking local BJP leaders, has sparked protests. In Hisar, Minister Kamal Gupta is facing internal revolt as former MLA Savitri Jindal has announced her candidacy as an independent. Adding to the chaos, industrialist Subhash Chandra has refused to back Gupta, signaling further fractures. within the party’s base in this key constituency.

Moreover, in Gannaur is witnessing discontent as senior BJP leader Devender Kadyan has announced his departure from the party after being denied a ticket. The BJP has instead chosen to field Devender Kaushik, the brother of former MP Ramesh Kaushik, fueling further frustration among Kadyan’s supporters.

Meanwhile, the Congress is faring no better, with growing rebellion from its own leaders. Even as the party has yet to finalize candidates for 49 assembly constituencies, numerous leaders have already filed nominations, defying party discipline.

In Kalayat, a fierce battle is shaping up between two contenders. Vikas Saharan, son of Congress MP Jai Prakash, has already filed his nomination, while social activist-turned-politician Shweta Dhull, backed by senior leader Randeep Surjewala, is poised to submit hers soon. This internal power struggle is likely to intensify as both candidates vie for the party’s official endorsement.

Former MLA Lalit Nagar from Tigaon has also thrown his hat in the ring, declaring his intention to contest as a Congress candidate, despite the party not officially announcing him. His defiance signals deeper divisions within Congress, which is struggling to maintain unity as the election approaches.

Adding to the Congress’s woes, Ajit Phogat, a long-time party loyalist and former chairman, has rebelled by filing his nomination as an independent from Dadri. Phogat, who has served the Congress for over 20 years and held several key positions in the Youth Congress, decided to take matters into his own hands, showcasing the party’s ongoing struggle to maintain cohesion.

AAP Unveils First List of 20 Candidates for Haryana Elections Amid Stalled Alliance Talks with Congress

September 9, 2024, 3:45 pm

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has released its first list of 20 candidates for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections scheduled for next month. This comes amid ongoing negotiations with the Congress for a possible alliance, which have reportedly reached a stalemate over seat-sharing arrangements.

According to sources, the AAP, which is aiming to expand its footprint beyond Delhi and Punjab, is pushing to contest at least 10 out of the 90 Assembly seats in Haryana. However, the Congress has offered only seven, leading to a deadlock in discussions. The parties are reportedly still in talks to reach a consensus ahead of the elections.

The release of the candidate list indicates that AAP is preparing to go ahead with its campaign, regardless of the outcome of the alliance discussions. The move signals AAP’s intent to challenge established political parties in the state, particularly the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.

The Haryana Assembly election will be a significant test for the AAP as it seeks to expand its influence in the northern state, with key issues such as governance, employment, and law and order likely to dominate the campaign.

Cong Workers Protest Outside Party Headquarters, Demand Local Candidates for Haryana Elections

September 8, 2024, 9:41 pm

Congress workers staged protests outside the party’s headquarters in New Delhi on Sunday, demanding local candidates be fielded for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections, scheduled for October 5. The protests were sparked by allegations that state Congress President Udai Bhan’s son-in-law and daughter, despite previous electoral losses, had been given tickets for the upcoming elections.

A Congress worker, speaking to the media, expressed frustration over the party’s decision. “Despite losing their deposits twice, Udai Bhan’s son-in-law and daughter have been given tickets again. We raised this issue within the party, and now we are highlighting it through the media,” he said. The worker further mentioned that if the tickets are not withdrawn, many candidates may run as independents or resign from the party.

According to the protesters, 42 candidates had applied for a ticket from the Pataudi region, 38 of whom were present at the protest. They argued that party guidelines stated that candidates who had lost twice would not be given tickets again.

One of the protesters, Sunita Verma, said, “Our leader Bawariya had made it clear that after two electoral losses, no candidate would be allowed to run. However, this rule is being broken, and we are demanding that it be upheld.”

The protesters called on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to ensure that the rules are followed fairly. “We request Rahul Gandhi and the Congress leadership to ensure that the party rules are enforced properly. It’s unfair to grant tickets to those who have previously been denied,” Verma added.

The protests come ahead of the Haryana elections, where the last date for filing nominations is September 12, with the results expected on October 8.

Haryana elections: Chaos Erupts in BJP, five Resign After Candidate List, Former Minister in Tears

September 5, 2024, 2:37 pm

On Wednesday, the BJP released its first list of 67 candidates for the Haryana Assembly elections, which has caused significant turmoil within the party. Following the announcement, five leaders have resigned one after another. Meanwhile, some leaders, disappointed by not getting a ticket, are holding meetings with their supporters and planning their next move. Former Cabinet Minister Kavita Jain, while addressing her supporters, broke down in tears and issued a warning to the party to change its ticket allocations.

These BJP Leaders Have Resigned:

Ram Kumar Kashyap has been fielded by the BJP from the Indri constituency. Haryana BJP OBC Morcha State President and former minister Karandev Kamboj, upset by this, has resigned from the party, accusing it of favoring traitors.
BJP has given a ticket to former MP Sunita Duggal from the Ratia constituency, leading to the resignation of MLA Laxman Napa, who expressed his displeasure with the decision. Napa is expected to join Congress.
From the Bawani Khera constituency, BJP has given the ticket to Kapoor Valmiki, prompting Sukhvinder Shyoran to resign from the position of Kisan Morcha President and from the party.
The BJP has fielded Anoop Dhanak from the Uklana constituency. Senior BJP leader Shamsher Gill has resigned from both the party and all his responsibilities, citing the wrong allocation of tickets by the party.
Nikhil Madan has been given the ticket from the Sonipat constituency, resulting in the resignation of Amit Jain, a member of the BJP Youth State Executive and Assembly Election In-charge for Sonipat.

Meetings Continue After Resignations: After the release of the first BJP list, several major resignations have occurred. Meanwhile, former Cabinet Minister Kavita Jain and former Haryana Chief Minister’s Media Advisor Rajeev Jain, both upset over not receiving tickets, have called meetings with their supporters. During these meetings, slogans were raised against former CM Manohar Lal Khattar and candidate Nikhil Madan. Kavita Jain, in tears, spoke to her supporters and demanded that the party change its ticket allocations. She has called for another meeting with party workers on September 8.

Additionally, the Rania seat has been given to Shishpal Kamboj instead of Ranjeet Singh Chautala. After his ticket was cut, Ranjeet Singh Chautala has also called for a press conference at his residence in Sirsa.

Haryana Elections: Kavita Jain Breaks Down, Warns BJP After Ticket Loss

September 5, 2024, 2:07 pm

After the removal of her ticket from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate list, former cabinet minister Kavita Jain’s Kavita Jain broke down in tears while addressing her supporters in a meeting on Wednesday.

Speaking emotionally to the workers, Kavita Jain expressed her sorrow. Meanwhile, her supporters have called for another meeting on September 8, where a major decision is expected to be made. Along with this, they issued a stern warning to the BJP.

Warning to BJP

During the meeting, slogans were raised against former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and candidate Nikhil Madan. Kavita Jain’s supporters demanded that the party reconsider its decision and warned the BJP to change the ticket.

28 Party Officials Resign

Following the removal of Kavita Jain’s ticket, her residence in Sector 15 saw a wave of disappointment, with workers and supporters gathering to show their support. Councillor Indu Valecha, along with her husband Sanjeev Valecha, and 28 other party officials resigned from their positions in protest.

Those who resigned released videos on WhatsApp, expressing their dissatisfaction with the BJP high command and announcing their resignations. Among those who resigned were Councillor Indu Valecha, her husband Sanjeev Valecha, the president of the Maharaja Agrasen Mandal’s Farmers’ Front, Ashok, and Mandal General Secretary Rajat Jain, among others.

Wave of Resignations Continues Until Late Night

The wave of resignations continued late into the night. Among those who resigned were Anand Kumar, Manjeet Dahiya, Mukesh Andy, Narendra Jogi, Mandal President Mukesh Batra, Amit Kumar, election in-charge of Sonipat Assembly, Sanjay Contractor, Somveer, Deepak Panchal, Jogendra Prajapati, Manoj Dhania, Jagdish Chhikara, Ramapati Upadhyay, Dhaniram, and former Councillor Manoj Sharma.

Who Has BJP Given Tickets To?

The Haryana BJP candidate list includes Vipul Goyal from Faridabad, Mukesh Sharma from Gurgaon, and Captain Abhimanyu from Narnaul. Nikhil Madan has been fielded from Sonipat, and Pawan Kharkhoda from Kharkhoda.

Additionally, Arvind Sharma from Gohana, Kumari Aarti Singh Rao from Ateli, Mool Chand Sharma from Ballabgarh, Rajesh Nagar from Tigaon, Check Chand Sharma from Prithla, Gaurav Gautam from Palwal, Tejpal Tanwar from Sohna, Rao Narbir Singh from Badshahpur, Laxman Singh Yadav from Rewari, Anil Dahina from Kosli, and Abhay Singh Yadav from Nangal Chaudhary have also been given tickets by the BJP.

Haryana Elections: Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia to Represent Congress in Key Assembly Seats

September 4, 2024, 2:39 pm

Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia are likely to run as Congress candidates in the upcoming Haryana assembly elections, with Phogat expected to contest from the Julana seat and Punia from the Badli seat, according to party sources. Their candidacies are anticipated to be finalized by the Congress Central Election Committee (CEC) on Wednesday or Thursday.

Although Phogat initially expressed a preference for the Julana seat, the Congress had considered fielding her from a constituency near Gurugram. As of now, the CEC has approved candidates for 66 out of 90 seats, but Phogat and Punia’s names were not included in the initial list.

This development follows a meeting between Phogat, Punia, and former Congress president Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Wednesday, fueling speculation about their potential candidacies. The Congress has remained reserved on the matter, with AICC general secretary in charge of Haryana, Deepak Babaria, indicating that clarity would be provided by Thursday.

The party shared a photo of Gandhi with Phogat and Punia on its official X handle. Both wrestlers were prominently involved in the 2023 protests against former BJP MP and Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who was accused of sexual harassment.

Haryana will hold elections for its 90 assembly seats on October 5, with the vote count scheduled for October 8.

Election Commission Reveals Dates for Jammu-Kashmir and Haryana Elections

August 16, 2024, 4:28 pm

The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Friday, August 16, 2024, the election dates for Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana. The elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be conducted in three phases September 18, September 25, and October 1, 2024. In contrast, Haryana will hold its election in a single phase on October 1, 2024.

The assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be conducted in three phases, starting on September 18. The results will be announced on October 4. In Haryana, the election will take place in a single phase on October 1, which coincides with the third phase of voting in Jammu and Kashmir. The counting of votes for both regions will occur on October 4. Meanwhile, directions were given to enforcement agencies, DMs, and SPs to ensure free, fair, and inducement-free elections.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, during a press conference, outlined the nomination deadlines: August 27 for the first phase, September 5 for the second phase, and September 12 for the third phase. Kumar remarked on the enthusiastic voter turnout during the Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir, noting the long queues and the visible eagerness of voters. He emphasised the importance of strengthening democratic processes in the region.

Jammu and Kashmir will have a total of 90 assembly constituencies, including 74 general, nine ST, and seven SC constituencies. The state has 87.09 lakh registered electors, comprising 44.46 lakh males, 42.62 lakh females, 169 transgender individuals, 82,590 persons with disabilities, 73,943 very senior citizens, 2,660 centenarians, 76,092 service electors, and 3.71 lakh first-time voters.

In Haryana, the assembly elections will be held in a single phase on October 1, 2024, with the results scheduled to be announced on October 4, 2024. The final date to file nominations in Haryana is September 12, with the scrutiny of nominations set for September 13 and the deadline for withdrawal of candidatures on September 16. Haryana’s assembly consists of 90 constituencies, including 73 general, 17 SC, and 0 ST seats. The state will have a total of 2.01 crore voters, comprising 1.06 crore males, 0.95 crore females, 4.52 lakh first-time voters, and 40.95 lakh young voters. The electoral roll for Haryana will be published on August 27, 2024.

In December of last year, the Supreme Court directed the central government to complete the election process in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir by September 30, 2024. Jammu and Kashmir will hold elections after a decade, with the last assembly election occurring in 2014. The PDP-BJP coalition government collapsed in June 2018 when the BJP withdrew support from then-Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.

In Haryana, the current government’s term will end on November 3, 2024, and elections will be held for 90 legislative assembly constituencies. Following the 2019 elections, the BJP, which won 40 seats in the 90-member assembly, formed a coalition government with the JJP, which won 10 seats, while Congress secured 31 seats. The BJP-JJP alliance ended earlier this year. In 2024, Haryana is expected to witness a four-way contest among the BJP, Congress, JJP, and AAP.

Sunita Kejriwal Promises Transformation In Haryana With AAP’s Vision

July 28, 2024, 3:36 am

Addressing a public meeting in Yamunanagar’s Sadhaura, Sunita Kejriwal, wife of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, claimed that her husband has transformed Delhi and Punjab and now aims to bring change to Haryana. She highlighted the achievements of the AAP government and promised similar improvements in Haryana if her party is voted to power.

Achievements in Delhi and Punjab
Sunita Kejriwal emphasized the significant changes her husband has made in Delhi and Punjab. “People all over the world know Kejriwal by his works. He improved the condition of government schools, set up mohalla clinics and hospitals providing free treatment, and made electricity free,” she said.

Local Issues in Sadhaura
Addressing local issues, Sunita pointed out the lack of a government college in Sadhaura, rampant illegal mining, and poor road conditions. She promised that if AAP comes to power, they would address these issues and more.

Promises for Haryana
Sunita Kejriwal made several promises to the people of Haryana:

Jobs for the unemployed
Free electricity
24/7 electricity supply
Mohalla clinics for accessible healthcare
₹1,000 per month for each woman

Conclusion
With the support of party’s state president Dr. Sushil Gupta, senior vice-president Anurag Dhanda, and other leaders, Sunita Kejriwal urged the people of Haryana to vote for AAP and bring about the same positive changes seen in Delhi and Punjab.