BJP’s strategic triumph in Haryana

By Abhijit Roy

Ignoring all political pundits’ analyses and exit poll projections, the BJP unexpectedly won a comfortable majority in the Haryana assembly elections. The ostensibly favourable mood for Congress did not appear to transfer into votes. The BJP’s strategic campaign was successful in reducing the people’s discontent with being in power for two consecutive terms. Not only that, but its performance was even greater than in the previous assembly elections, and it is now able to form the government on its own. In truth, the solidarity of the loud Jat group in Haryanvi culture, as well as the sense of insecurity in some communities as a result, contributed to polarization in favour of BJP which was creating this political narrative like a silent voter, whose intentions were unknown to political gurus, the media, and exit pollsters. However, in this assembly election, Congress was unable to regain the faith of Dalit voters who had voted for it in big numbers in the Lok Sabha elections.

Jammu and Kashmir’s assembly elections were also significant for a variety of reasons. While there was some concern over whether Jammu and Kashmir could withstand the test of democracy. Even before the results of the assembly elections were announced, the people of Jammu-Kashmir sent a strong statement that democracy had reestablished itself in the state. After the globe and the country received this message, the only question that remained was who would hold power. Because the BJP did not fight all seats in this election and its influence in the Kashmir valley was minor in comparison to the Jammu division, it had little possibility of becoming a major challenger for power. Even after this, it is worth noting that, in addition to defeating its opponents in the Jammu division, it laid the groundwork for its massive base in the Kashmir valley. It is inevitable that the National Conference will establish a government with Congress in Jammu and Kashmir, but it must abandon its divisive agenda to foster peace and stability, give Jammu equal significance, and allow Kashmiri Hindus to return home. It is not appropriate to insist for the restoration of state status unless all these steps are taken.

(The views expressed are personal opinion of the author.)