INLD joins forces with Haryana Lokhit Party (HLP)

In a surprising turn of events in Haryana's political landscape, the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) has announced a new alliance with the Haryana Lokhit Party (HLP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) for the upcoming state elections. This development, reported by The Haryana Story, marks a significant shift in the state's political dynamics.

The alliance was officially declared at the residence of Gopal Kanda, the leader of HLP, in Sirsa. Abhay Singh Chautala, the national general secretary of INLD, made the formal announcement, confirming that Gopal Kanda would be the alliance's candidate from the Sirsa constituency.

From Rags to Riches: Gopal Kanda's Political Journey

Gopal Kanda's rise in Haryana politics is nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a shoe shop owner in Sirsa, Kanda climbed the political ladder to become a state minister. His journey began in the early 2000s when he developed close ties with the Chautala family, who were then leading the INLD government in Haryana.

Kanda's political influence grew significantly during the Bhupinder Singh Hooda-led Congress government. He played a crucial role in helping the Congress form the government in 2009 when it fell short of a majority. As a reward, Kanda was appointed as the Minister of State for Home Affairs. Controversies and Comebacks

Kanda's political career has been marred by controversies. In 2012, he faced serious allegations in connection with the suicide of an air hostess who had worked for his now-defunct MDLR Airlines. This incident led to his resignation from the state cabinet and an 18-month stint in Tihar Jail. However, Kanda was later acquitted in this case after a prolonged legal battle lasting 11 years. 

Despite these setbacks, Kanda has managed to maintain his relevance in Haryana politics. His party, the Haryana Lokhit Party, has been a small but significant player in the state's political arena.

New Alliance: A Challenge to BJP's Dominance

The formation of this new alliance is seen as a direct challenge to the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) dominance in Haryana. The BJP, which had been in talks with Kanda's HLP, ultimately decided against forming an alliance. This decision paved the way for HLP to join forces with INLD and BSP. 

Political analysts believe that this alliance could significantly alter the electoral equations in Haryana. The combined vote banks of INLD, HLP, and BSP could pose a serious challenge to both the BJP and the Congress in several constituencies across the state.

As reported by The Haryana Story, this alliance represents a new chapter in Haryana's political narrative. It remains to be seen how this coalition will perform in the upcoming elections and whether it can successfully challenge the established political order in the state.