Congress Set for Major Comeback in Haryana, Exit Polls Predict 

Multiple exit polls released on Saturday indicate a strong comeback for the Congress party in Haryana after spending ten years in opposition. The surveys suggest a clear majority for Congress, potentially marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape.

Comprehensive Exit Poll Results 

Here's what major polling agencies predict for the 90-seat Haryana Assembly: 

• Dainik Bhaskar - Congress: 44-54 seats - BJP: 15-29 seats 
• Republic-Matrize - Congress: 55-62 seats - BJP: 18-24 seats 
• Red Mike-Datansh - Congress: 50-55 seats - BJP: 20-25 seats 
• Dhruv Research - Congress: 50-64 seats - BJP: 22-32 seats 
• Peoples' Pulse - Congress: 49-60 seats - BJP: 20-32 seats 

All five major surveys consistently show Congress crossing the majority mark of 46 seats needed to form the government.

High Voter Turnout and Regional Patterns

The state recorded a 61% voter turnout by 5 PM, with the Mewat district showing the highest participation. Yamunanagar district, comprising Jagadhri, Radaur, Sadhaura, and Yamunanagar assembly constituencies, recorded nearly 57% votes by 3 PM, leading among all 22 districts. 

Former Union law minister Ashwani Kumar interpreted the high turnout as a "decisive vote for change," suggesting that voters are ready for new leadership. He added that a Congress victory would send a "discomforting" message to the ruling BJP from the Hindi heartland.

Leadership Race and Future Implications

While Congress hasn't officially announced its chief ministerial candidate, former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda appears to be the frontrunner. Party veterans Kumari Selja and Randeep Surjewala are also considered potential contenders, though neither contested the election.

Congress leader Kuldeep Vats expressed confidence in Hooda's return as Chief Minister, stating, "It is a guarantee that Bhupinder Singh Hooda will become the CM again."

Regarding the selection process for Chief Minister, senior Congress leader Kumari Selja explained, "Once the results are out, a meeting will be called, and after that it goes to the high command. There is a due process which has to be gone through."

However, BJP leaders remain optimistic despite the exit poll predictions. Former Haryana minister Anil Vij dismissed the surveys, stating, "Exit polls will be proved wrong and the BJP will form the government." Union minister Rao Inderjit Singh took a more measured approach, saying, "It all depends on the people and we will have to accept whatever the people decide."

The final results will be declared on October 8, 2024, which will determine the actual outcome of this crucial election.