BJP Eyes Third Term In 2024 Haryana Elections As Congress Struggles With Internal Issues

Reports and forecasts for the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections suggest a strong possibility of the BJP retaining power for a third consecutive term, while a Congress comeback seems unlikely. Voting is set for October 5 across all 90 seats, with results to be declared on October 8.

Before ticket distribution, Congress seemed to have a chance in the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections. However, familyism influenced their choices. The first list of candidates included 32 names, with 28 being current MLAs. Sources indicate that former CM Bhupendra Singh Hooda's faction secured 28 tickets, while Kumari Selja's faction received only four. This trend continued in subsequent lists.

The BJP is also not free from familyism, despite criticising Congress for it. In the BJP, familyism influenced 11 seats. Notable names include Adampur MLA Bhavy Bishnoi and MP Rao Inderjit's daughter in Ahirwal. The grandson of former CM Bhajan Lal is also among the candidates.

After candidate lists were released, both parties faced internal rebellions. Many leaders left their parties or filed nominations as independents. The BJP managed to calm its rebels by the final list announcement. However, Congress continues to struggle with internal dissent.

In the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections, Congress has shown twice as much familyism as the BJP. They followed a traditional formula, giving tickets to family members of active leaders on 22 seats. Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Surjewala's son Aditya Surjewala got a ticket from Kaithal. MP Varun Chaudhary's wife Pooja Chaudhary is a candidate from Mullana (SC) seat, and Mandeep Singh, son of a former minister, is contesting from Pihowa seat.

BJP's Prospects

The BJP government has been in power since 2014 and again in 2019. Analysts believe they will retain power due to Congress's internal issues. Familyism within Congress has weakened their position, evident from ticket distribution favouring the Hooda family over other leaders like Kumari Selja.

As the election date approaches, the BJP appears to be ahead of Congress after nominations were finalised. Despite initial unrest within the party, they managed to stabilise by addressing internal conflicts effectively.

The political landscape in Haryana is shifting as the election draws near. While Congress initially showed potential, internal familyism and rebellion have hampered their chances. The BJP seems poised for another term, having managed to quell internal dissent and maintain a stronger position.