Sat Oct 05 04:47:25 UTC 2024: ## Haryana Votes for New Government: BJP Seeks Third Term as Congress Aims for Comeback
Haryana is holding its assembly elections today, with over 2 crore voters set to decide the fate of 90 seats in a single-phase poll. The election is closely contested, with the BJP vying for a third consecutive term while the Congress hopes to reclaim power after ten years.
The ruling BJP, under Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, is banking on its developmental record, highlighting the state’s transformation into a “developed state” under their leadership. The Congress, led by Rahul Gandhi, is emphasizing issues like the Agniveer scheme, farmers’ protests, and the wrestlers’ agitation against the BJP, and has promised seven key guarantees including a legal commitment to MSPs and a monthly allowance for women.
Regional parties, such as Dushyant Chautala’s Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) and Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), are also hoping to play a significant role in the formation of the next government.
With 1,031 candidates in the fray, including 101 women and 464 independents, the election has seen its share of incidents and controversies. Independent candidate Balraj Kundu alleged he and his assistant were assaulted by supporters of Congress candidate Balram Dangi. Meanwhile, Congress leader Deepender Singh Hooda has urged the Election Commission to transfer the SP of Bhiwani district, alleging bias against the Congress.
Prime Minister Modi, urging voters to participate in the “festival of democracy,” expressed his best wishes to the young voters casting their ballot for the first time.
As polling commenced across the state, key political figures including Chief Minister Saini, former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and others cast their votes.
The results of the election are expected to be announced on October 8.
First Piper 