Haryana’s political landscape saw a surprising shift as the BJP clinched a hat-trick victory, overturning exit poll predictions that had favored a Congress win. Despite 10 years in power, local voters re-elected the BJP, defying expectations. Analysts point to caste dynamics, particularly Congress’s focus on the Jat community, as a factor that worked against themStrategic Leadership Shift
Months of surveys and campaign narratives had pointed to a Congress victory. In response, the BJP crafted a strategic plan, with a key move being the replacement of then-Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar with Nayab Singh Saini. This change proved decisive, as Saini, in just 200 days, steered the party towards a historic win. His leadership, along with the party’s nomination of 24 OBC candidates, was instrumental in gaining influence in key constituencies.
Public Sentiment and BJP’s Tactical Shift
Public dissatisfaction under Khattar’s nearly decade-long rule was apparent, prompting the BJP leadership to take swift action by introducing Saini. With stakes high following the party’s setback in general elections, winning Haryana became critical for the BJP. Saini, working in tandem with Khattar, played a pivotal role in crafting a comeback strategy, focusing on local governance and targeted schemes.
Saini’s Campaign Approach
Nayab Singh Saini took charge of the election campaign, stepping in where Prime Minister Modi’s involvement was minimal, with only four rallies. Saini emphasized his personal responsibility, stating, “The party will take credit if we win, but the responsibility is mine if we lose.” Taking over amid growing public discontent over the farm protests and the Agnipath scheme, Saini had just two and a half months to implement measures before the election code of conduct came into effect.
Key Initiatives for Voter Engagement
In a short span, Saini announced a series of voter-friendly measures, including increasing village panchayat spending limits from ₹5 lakh to ₹21 lakh, reducing electricity bills, and launching a state-level solar panel distribution scheme for poor families. Additionally, to mitigate dissatisfaction surrounding the Agnipath scheme, he introduced the Agniveer Policy – 2024, promising employment opportunities for those affected by the scheme. These initiatives significantly impacted rural voter sentiment.
Through a combination of strategic leadership, timely interventions, and grassroots development initiatives, Nayab Singh Saini successfully led the BJP to a third consecutive term in Haryana, securing a pivotal victory for the party.