Haryana Election Results: How RSS Resurgence Helped BJP Win Big

In the Haryana election results, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a historic third consecutive term by winning 48 seats in the 90-member Assembly. Congress, which was initially poised to challenge the BJP, managed to win only 37 seats. The resurgence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is being credited for this remarkable victory.

Role of the RSS

Following the 2020-2021 farmers’ protests, BJP’s popularity took a significant hit, causing unrest among grassroots workers and local leaders. An internal survey by the RSS in August revealed that the Haryana government, led by then-Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, was losing its appeal, prompting calls for leadership and strategic changes.

In response, the BJP sought the assistance of the RSS to rebuild trust with rural voters and re-energize its grassroots machinery.

Rural Voter Outreach Program

In early September, the RSS deployed at least 150 volunteers to each district as part of a rural voter outreach program. The initiative aimed to strengthen ties with rural communities and counter the rising anti-incumbency sentiment against the BJP government.

RSS volunteers went door-to-door, organizing chaupals to connect with voters, effectively reversing negative perceptions and turning them into support for the BJP.

Role of CM Nayab Singh Saini

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini was tasked with improving his visibility among rural voters, particularly in his own constituency of Ladwa, where he faced backlash. Saini met with khap and panchayat leaders who had voiced dissatisfaction with Khattar’s administration.

Collaboration Between RSS and BJP

The collaboration between the RSS and BJP was key to this victory. Analysts believe that without RSS intervention, BJP would have struggled to secure its third term.

By fostering unity within the party, RSS helped mitigate potential polarization between Jat and Dalit communities, ensuring broader voter support.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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