Haryana Elections 2024: Can INLD-BSP and JJP-Bhim Army Sway Votes Away from Congress?

As the Haryana Assembly elections draw near, Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala confidently states that the rise of parties such as the INLD-BSP and JJP-Azad Samaj Party will not majorly impact the Congress's chances. Surjewala believes that the electorate's main aim is to defeat the BJP, accusing it of failing in various aspects. This sentiment seems to unite voters under the Congress banner, suggesting a diminishing effect of regional parties on the larger political landscape.

Surjewala, a seasoned politician and Congress Rajya Sabha MP, is actively campaigning, especially in the Kaithal constituency. Here, not only is he a prominent figure, but his son, Aditya Surjewala, is also making his electoral debut. Aditya, taking forward the political legacy as the third generation from his family, faces off against BJP's incumbent Leela Ram. With a background in commerce from the University of British Columbia, Aditya represents fresh blood in the party, contesting in a region that has previously shown strong support for Congress.

"First time, I am seeing that even issues are also becoming blurred. People just want to oust the BJP," says Surjewala, highlighting the public's desire for change over specific policy concerns. This statement encapsulates the mood of the electorate, according to Surjewala, who is focused on harnessing this sentiment to bolster Congress's position in the state.

The upcoming election, scheduled for October 5 with results to be announced on October 8, is a critical moment for Surjewala and the Congress. With the party contesting 89 out of the 90 seats, there is a strong belief within its ranks that they can replicate or even exceed their 2005 performance, where they won 67 seats. This confidence stems not only from the party's historical presence in the region but also from the strategic campaigning led by figures like Surjewala, who are deeply rooted in the state's politics.

The sentiment against the BJP, as articulated by Surjewala, might overshadow the influence of newer or smaller parties in the election. He suggests that the electorate's commitment to ousting the BJP is a unifying factor that could significantly benefit Congress, reducing the electoral fragmentation that often benefits ruling parties.