Captain Courageous: Journey of Abhimanyu Sindhu, Haryana BJP's Starry hope

A few things have unfolded in the last couple of days. While the exit polls showed that it would be a Modi Tsunami for the third time in a row, the results were humbling. Apart from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, another state shocked people all over. That state is Haryana. 

Over the last year, many things have unfolded in the state, politically speaking. Some time back, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar submitted his resignation. Consequently, the coalition government he led with the Jan Nayak Janta Party collapsed. Many speculated that he'd be the CM with fresh support and council. However, he surprised everyone by announcing that BJP State president Nayab Saini would be the state's chief minister. A fresh council took oath, and a change was in order. 

With the same, the fresh government and a new BJP Haryana went to polls. While many within the party were speculating Rohtak to be a tough contest. But as results show, BJP was halved in the state. And wherever it won, apart from Karnal, it was with a tough fight. Now, that opens a box of questions. 

Much like before the elections, the social media pundits began speculating. Congress influencers whose predictions came close to true began patting their backs and seeking support from their other social media friends. While no one but a strong organisation leader would understand what unfolds on each booth, who’s to counter? That's social media for you! 

Regardless, it opens the party for some speculation. Since Nayab Saini, former President of the party, is now the CM of the state, there is an opening! Who'd fill the vacuum is a question many have been asking in the aftermath. 

Considering the caste dynamics, party loyalty, experience and prevailing situation, one person who stands out and settles well in the shoes is Captain Abhimanyu. He is an army veteran, ‘padha-likha’ progressive jat industrialist who stood with the BJP when no one did. He helped build the fortunes of the party over the years before 2014.

It was perhaps a reason he was considered a front-runner to be the Chief Minister of Haryana after BJP’s 2014 win. Captain Abhimanyu's dedication to the BJP and his unwavering support for the party's vision are truly commendable. Despite not being chosen as the Chief Minister after the party's victory in 2014, he worked tirelessly, taking on crucial portfolios like Finance and playing a pivotal role in implementing significant economic reforms such as GST and demonetisation. His resilience in the face of adversity, when his own home was burned down during the Jat reservation movement, speaks volumes about his character and commitment. 

One of the most notable aspects of Captain Abhimanyu's political journey is his versatility and diverse experience. Having attended prestigious institutions like those in Haryana and Harvard, served in the Indian Army, and even cleared the coveted Indian Civil Services Examination, he brings a unique blend of knowledge, discipline, and leadership. His decision to forego a civil services career to nurture his family's business empire and subsequently venture into politics showcases his willingness to take on new challenges and adapt to different roles.

Captain Abhimanyu's contributions to the BJP's success in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, where he played a crucial role in media management and election strategy, further highlight his organisational skills and political acumen. He has been a steadfast supporter of the Modi government and was confident of the BJP's win in the 2014 elections. When Modi came to power, he actively managed stages and worked as a dedicated BJP worker. During Manohar Lal Khattar's tenure as Haryana's Chief Minister from 2014 to 2019 and from 2019 to 2024, he never showed any ambition for the Chief Minister's position. Instead, he unconditionally supported Khattar and worked for the BJP's interests. 

As a prominent Jat face within the BJP, Captain Abhimanyu's potential to revive the party's fortunes in the upcoming state assembly elections cannot be overlooked. With the BJP securing just 5 out of 10 seats in the recent Lok Sabha elections, his ability to woo Jaat voters in the state could be crucial. The party respects him as one of its senior leaders, and his deep understanding of the state's economy, politics, and organisational management skills make him a trusted choice for the role of BJP State President. If not, for more!

Captain Abhimanyu's journey from an army veteran to a successful industrialist and, eventually, a dedicated political leader is genuinely inspiring. His commitment to public service, his diverse experiences, and his ability to navigate through challenging circumstances make him a valuable asset to the BJP. As the party looks to regain its foothold in Haryana, Captain Abhimanyu's leadership and vision could play a pivotal role in shaping the state's political landscape. One could argue that it's already too late with the assembly elections in the coming months. But, if there is someone who can lift the party from here on, it would be Captain Abhimanyu. But that necessarily has to happen with all required mandates and freedom. Even more, it requires the existing power centres to give him the freedom to build up from here.