Why New Faces Replace Seven Sitting MLAs of BJP in Haryana?

By The Haryana Story

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has made significant changes in its second list of candidates for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections scheduled for October 5, 2024. The party's decision to replace seven sitting MLAs, including two ministers, signals a clear attempt to address anti-incumbency concerns and inject fresh energy into its campaign. 

New Faces, New Hopes

In a bold move, the BJP has decided to drop two ministers from the current government led by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. Banwari Lal from Bawal and Seema Trikha from Badkhal have been replaced by newcomers Krishna Kumar and Dhanesh Adlakha, respectively. This change reflects the party's strategy to present a renewed image to the voters. 

The list also includes the names of five other sitting MLAs who have been denied tickets this time:

1. Mohan Lal Badoli (Rai)
2. Nirmal Rani (Ganaur)
3. Praveen Dagar (Hathin)
4. Jagdish Nayar (Hodal)
5. Satya Prakash Jrawta (Pataudi)

Power Play: Loyalists Take Center Stage 

The new list showcases the influence of two key figures in Haryana BJP politics: Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh and former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. Several candidates known to be close to these leaders have secured tickets:

• Rao Inderjit Singh's camp: Om Prakash Yadav, Krishna Kumar, and Bimla Chaudhary
• Manohar Lal Khattar's loyalists: Krishan Bedi (Narwana), Manish Grover (Rohtak), Yogendra Rana (Assandh), and Pawan Saini (Naraingarh)

Inclusive Approach: Muslim Candidates in Key Seats 

In a move that appears to be aimed at broadening its appeal, the BJP has fielded two Muslim candidates in important constituencies:

1. Naseem Ahmed from Nuh 

2. Aizaz Ahmed from Punhana

Additionally, Haryana minister Sanjay Singh, who was earlier dropped from his Sohna seat, has been repositioned to contest from the Muslim-dominated Nuh constituency.

Unresolved Issues: Seats on Hold

The party has yet to announce candidates for three crucial seats:

1. Mahendragarh: Former minister Ram Bilas Sharma, a senior party leader, is reportedly considering running as an independent if denied the ticket.

2. Faridabad (NIT): A tussle between Union Minister KP Gurjar and ex-MLA Nagendra Bhadana has delayed the decision.

3. Sirsa: This seat is likely to be left for the NDA alliance partner, Haryana Lokhit Party, led by sitting MLA Gopal Kanda.

As the election date draws closer, the BJP's strategic candidate selection reflects its determination to maintain its grip on power in Haryana. The party's willingness to drop sitting MLAs and promote fresh faces demonstrates its adaptability in the face of potential anti-incumbency sentiments.

The Haryana Story will continue to monitor developments as the state gears up for what promises to be an exciting electoral battle.