Mon Sep 08 20:01:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the article, followed by a rewritten version in news article format, designed for “The View From India” section of *The Hindu*.

**Summary:**

The article discusses the political landscape in Haryana almost a year after the latest Assembly elections. While the ruling BJP secured a third consecutive victory, internal strife and questions about Chief Minister Nayab Saini’s authority have surfaced. A senior BJP leader publicly acknowledged the continued influence of former CM Manohar Lal within the current government. Infighting, poor handling of some issues, and perceived weakness of the current CM have plagued the BJP. Meanwhile, the opposition Congress party has reorganized its structure after a decade, strategically diversifying its leadership to move beyond a solely Jat-focused approach. The INLD’s/JJP’s chances of recovery dimmed further with the death of Om Prakash Chautala.

**News Article:**

**Haryana BJP Grapples with Internal Strife as Opposition Reorganizes**

**By *The Hindu* Staff**
**Published: September 9, 2025**

**CHANDIGARH** – As Haryana approaches the one-year mark since its last Assembly election, the political scene is anything but settled. While the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) enjoys a historic third consecutive term, recent months have exposed deep fissures within the party and raised questions about the current leadership.

A key moment came when BJP MP Rao Inderjit Singh publicly acknowledged the continued influence of former Chief Minister Manohar Lal within the government of current Chief Minister Nayab Saini. Speaking on a podcast, Singh noted that many officials appointed under Lal remain in key positions in the Chief Minister’s Office, fueling speculation about Saini’s true authority.

These remarks echo criticisms from opposition leaders, who have frequently labeled Saini an “accidental CM” and suggest he lacks real power. The government’s handling of several recent issues, including alleged law and order failures and controversies surrounding policy decisions, has further weakened his position.

Internal dissent within the BJP isn’t limited to subtle power plays. Minister Anil Vij openly criticized Saini soon after the election, alleging a conspiracy to undermine his electoral success. The public display of infighting has damaged the party’s image and fueled opposition claims of instability. A leadership battle between prominent Ahir leaders Mr. Singh and Industries Minister Rao Narbir during the Mayor’s election further exposed the BJP’s internal issues.

Meanwhile, the opposition Congress party is seizing the opportunity to reorganize. After a decade without a formal district-level structure, the party has appointed new district presidents. Significantly, Congress appears to be moving beyond its traditional reliance on the Jat vote bank, appointing more non-Jat leaders to key positions.

The INLD and JJP, already struggling after their split, suffered another setback with the death of Om Prakash Chautala. His passing likely diminishes any chance of reconciliation and political revival for the Chautala factions.

As Haryana heads towards the next election cycle, the BJP faces the challenge of resolving its internal divisions and asserting its leadership. The Congress, meanwhile, hopes its strategic reorganization will allow it to capitalize on the BJP’s vulnerabilities and mount a stronger challenge. The coming months will be critical in shaping the political landscape of the state.

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