Haryana heads to Assembly elections this Saturday, with a primary contest expected between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress. The BJP, aiming for a third consecutive term, is promoting its “double-engine” governance model, despite internal rifts. The Congress, led by veteran Bhupinder Singh Hooda, is leveraging discontent among key voter groups, including farmers, employees, and youth, to challenge the incumbent.
While both parties are contesting 89 seats, smaller players like AAP, INLD-BSP, JJP, and BJP rebels are expected to create multi-cornered contests in some constituencies.
Key issues for the Congress include inflation, unemployment, and law and order, with promises of reinstating the old pension scheme and providing financial relief to women and vulnerable groups. The BJP counters with its “non-stop development” agenda, although it faces criticism over unmet promises from previous elections and internal dissent.
Major campaigners such as Prime Minister Modi, Rahul Gandhi, Amit Shah, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra have made high-profile appearances, underscoring the significance of the polls. Political analysts suggest that the Congress may have a slight edge due to rising public dissatisfaction with the BJP’s performance, particularly on employment and rural issues.
