Vij Can Stake Claim, But Saini is Our CM Choice: Mohanlal Badoli

Haryana BJP chief Mohan Lal Badoli reaffirms Nayab Singh Saini as party's chief ministerial candidate, amid senior leader Anil Vij's assertion to stake claim for top post after October 5 assembly polls.

CM Nayab Saini with BJP State Chief Mohanlal Badoli

September 16, 2024

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Haryana is experiencing some pre-election jitters as senior party leader Anil Vij publicly staked his claim for the Chief Minister's post, potentially challenging the party's official stance. This development has sparked discussions about party unity and leadership just weeks before the crucial October 5 Assembly polls.

Vij's Bold Move

Anil Vij, the senior-most BJP MLA in Haryana, made a surprising statement asserting his right to be considered for the Chief Minister's position. "I have never aspired for any post in the party. But being the senior-most legislator, I would definitely stake a claim for the CM's post. It is for the party high command to accept or deny my claim," Vij declared.

This statement comes despite the BJP's earlier announcement of Nayab Singh Saini as their chief ministerial candidate. Saini, who replaced Manohar Lal Khattar in March, has been officially endorsed by top party leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Party's Balancing Act

Responding to Vij's claim, BJP state chief Mohan Lal Badoli attempted to strike a balance. He acknowledged Vij's right to express his ambitions while reaffirming the party's commitment to Saini. "Anil Vij has every right to stake a claim for any post, but Nayab Singh Saini is the party's only chief ministerial face," Badoli stated.

Underlying Tensions

Sources within the party suggest that Vij's statement might be a strategic move to assert his importance within the BJP. The senior leader reportedly shared an "uneasy relationship" with former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and had expressed dissatisfaction when Saini, a comparatively junior member, was elevated to the Chief Minister's position.

Adding to the complexity, Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh had also recently expressed his desire for the top post, citing support from the Ahirwal region.

As reported by The Haryana Story, these developments have created a challenging situation for the BJP. While the party aims to present a united front ahead of the elections, managing the aspirations of senior leaders without causing internal rifts will be crucial for their success at the polls.