BJP Eyes Third Term in Haryana: 3 Key Factors

As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strives for a third consecutive term in Haryana, three key factors are shaping its campaign. With the assembly elections set for October 5, the ruling BJP is putting in every effort to retain power despite rising dissatisfaction among voters.

The BJP’s campaign has strategically focused on rural constituencies, aiming to consolidate the non-Jat and Dalit voters. Furthermore, alleged internal strife within the Congress has provided a potential advantage for the BJP as it looks to split votes in a multi-cornered contest.

BJP’s Focus on Rural Areas

The BJP has been focusing heavily on rural constituencies, utilizing the organizational strength of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to extend its grassroots reach. This rural emphasis followed Congress’s success in securing 45 rural seats during the last Lok Sabha elections.

Since September, the RSS has mobilized 150 volunteers in each district to coordinate with mandal-level workers. These volunteers engage with local communities through panchayat meetings (chaupals), ensuring voters’ support in rural areas.

Targeting Non-Jat and Dalit Voters

In this election, the BJP is actively working to unite the non-Jat voters, commonly referred to as the 36 biradaris, while aiming to capitalize on a division among Dalit votes.

Should the BJP succeed in bringing together the 36 biradaris—comprised of Brahmins, Baniyas, Jats, Gurjars, Rajputs, Punjabis, and others—it could dent Congress’s traditional voter base in rural areas. At the same time, a split in Dalit votes may further bolster BJP’s prospects.

Congress’s Internal Divisions

Infighting within the Congress has also emerged as a significant factor. Despite Rahul Gandhi’s recent efforts to bring unity, the Congress remains divided into two camps—one led by Kumari Selja, the Dalit face of the party, and the other by Bhupinder Singh Hooda.

Selja’s faction fears that Hooda’s group is fielding Congress rebels against her loyalist candidates, undermining their chances in the election. This internal conflict could play in the BJP’s favor as it seeks to capitalize on a fragmented opposition.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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