Haryana’s 2024 Assembly Elections have set the stage for a thrilling political contest, as parties scramble to secure votes across 90 constituencies. This election is expected to be significant, particularly as the current ruling party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), attempts to clinch its third consecutive term. Meanwhile, the Congress party is gunning for redemption after suffering defeat in the last elections.
The day is marked by high expectations and energy, encapsulated by the intense campaigning by various parties including the BJP, Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and alliances such as the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) paired with the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). Voters are casting their ballots from 7 AM to 6 PM as the stakes are high: the results, set to be announced on October 8, will not only influence the political atmosphere of Haryana but also could have ramifications on national politics.
According to the Chief Electoral Officer of Haryana, Pankaj Agarwal, over 20 million voters, which include more than 10 million males and nearly 9.6 million females, are registered to vote. This election sees 1,031 candidates vying for the people's approval, all distributed across 20,632 polling booths set up for the day. Interestingly, voter turnout is being closely monitored, with reports indicating varying percentage of participation as the day progresses.
Expectations for voter turnout were initially optimistic, with 9.53% reported by 9 AM and 22.7% by 11 AM. By 3 PM, the number had climbed significantly to 49.13%, with voting activity reported to be especially high in areas like Yamunanagar. Such statistics indicate the electorate's engagement, marking this election as pivotal.
Political heavyweights are making their showings felt at the polls. Former Chief Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar, who served nearly ten years before his recent succession by Nayab Singh Saini, expressed confidence about the BJP's prospects: “We will form the government for the third time,” Khattar declared, asserting the ruling party’s development record as evidence of their capability.
Khattar has been vocal about his opposition to the Congress party, accusing them of corruption and deceit, stating, “Their lies have been exposed,” and claiming, “Unemployment exists only for corrupt agents of the Congress.” His contention reflects sentiments echoed by many BJP supporters, who are pinning their hopes on a developmental narrative led by the party's governance.
On the other hand, Congress is trying to paint the election as one of change, with leaders like Kumari Selja, herself expressing aspirations of garnering total control with their coalition. “This is going to change the fate of Haryana,” she asserted, emphasizing their readiness to reclaim power.
Adding to the dynamic is Arvind Kejriwal of AAP, who also mobilized voters, urging them to cast their ballots not just for change, but for improvement. His campaign resonates with the electorate’s growing frustration with entrenched politics and promises of tangible advancements.
The day hasn’t been without its challenges. Reports of minor clashes have emerged from districts like Nuh, raising concerns over violence during what should be a peaceful democratic process. Election authorities have deployed significant security measures, including over 29,000 police officials along with home guards and special police officers, ensuring voter safety is prioritized.
Among the prominent candidates contesting the elections are noteworthy sports figures like Vinesh Phogat, who recently joined Congress. Her presence could potentially sway the votes of younger demographics and sports enthusiasts aiming for greater representation.
Haryana has not only been the battleground for political ideologies but also has witnessed shifts influenced by socio-political upheavals. The electoral fate will speak to the public's desire for governance free from corruption, as articulated by Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister. He emphasized the significance of each vote and the power it has to curb corruption, urging citizens to exercise their voting rights.
At the end of this eventful day, the results will line up to indicate whether the trends leading up to the elections hold true or if surprise victories await. The electoral climate of Haryana remains charged with anticipation and the potential for substantial political shifts.
