Haryana Assembly Elections 2024: Anil Vij To Stake Claim For CM Post If BJP Comes To Power In State Again

Senior BJP leader Anil Vij expressed his intention to claim the chief minister's post if BJP wins the upcoming Haryana Assembly. This statement comes despite the party already naming Nayab Singh Saini as their chief ministerial candidate.

"I never sought anything from the party till today. People from Haryana coming to meet me. Even in Ambala, people tell me that I am senior-most why I did not become CM. On demand of the people, and on the basis of seniority, this time I will stake claim to become chief minister," Vij said.

Vij's Seniority and Public Support

Vij emphasised his seniority and public support as reasons for his decision. He mentioned that he has won six elections and is contesting his seventh. "I am the party's senior-most MLA and have won six elections and am contesting my seventh one. I have never sought anything from my party so far," he stated.

He also highlighted that people from across Haryana and his constituency have been urging him to stake a claim for the chief minister's post. "But people from across Haryana and people of my own constituency have been meeting me. I will stake claim for the chief minister's post," said Vij.

Party Decision and Timing

When asked about Saini being declared as the chief ministerial candidate, Vij responded, "There is no bar on staking the claim. I will make my claim, let the party take a call". He added that it is ultimately up to the party high command to decide.

Regarding the timing of his announcement with elections just weeks away, Vij explained that he made this decision after being approached by many people. Notably, Manohar Lal Khattar was replaced by Saini as chief minister in March.

"Whether the party makes me or not, it is up to them. But if they make me CM, I will change Haryana's 'takdeer and tasveer' (face and destiny of Haryana)," said Vij.

Anil Vij's remarks come at a crucial time for BJP as they prepare for the upcoming elections. His assertion reflects both his confidence in his leadership abilities and his belief in public support.