As the campaigning for the 90-seats Haryana Assembly Elections concluded on Thursday, the two major contenders, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress, have been aggressively competing, each aiming to secure a decisive victory. The state, known for its deeply entrenched patriarchal values, presents a unique electoral landscape where many women rely on male family members to guide their voting decisions.

OBCs and Dalits May hold the Balance of Power

Haryanas electorate is diverse, with significant influence from various communities. Historically, the Jat voters, a dominant agrarian community, are largely lean towards the Congress. In contrast, the Punjabi and Sainicommunities show a strong preference for the BJP.

However, the balance of power may ultimately rest with the Dalits and other marginalized OBCs, who often feel disempowered and disillusioned due to lack of jobs and opportunities.

The BJP has been strategically targeting this sentiment, running advertisements accusing the Congress of being anti-Dalit. Haryanas Scheduled Castes (SCs) population stands at 40.9 lakh, comprising 19.4% of the states population, making it the fifth-largest SC population in India.

Experts note that while Brahmins, Punjabis, and Sainis traditionally support the BJP, issues like the farmers protests have transcended caste lines, influencing voter behavior across the board.

Haryanas rural population, which constitutes nearly 62% of the states total population, also plays a crucial role in the elections. The farming industry, comprising people from all castes, has been a significant factor in shaping voter preferences. The majority of Dalit and Jat votes are consolidated with the Congress, reflecting a broader sentiment of discontent with the current administration.

The Battle for Power

The upcoming elections pose a critical question: Will the people of Haryana grant the ruling BJP a consecutive third term in office, or will the Congress manage to wrest power from the saffron party after more than a decade in opposition? The BJPs development report card and the Congresss focus on anti-incumbency and key issues create a dynamic and unpredictable electoral battle.

Prime Minister Modis statements during the campaign emphasized the BJPs commitment to development and national unity. He criticized the Congress for its alleged divisive and negative politics, urging the people of Haryana to reject such approaches.

I have traveled all over the state in the last few days. The enthusiasm I have seen among the people gives me full confidence that the people of Haryana will once again give their blessings to the BJP. The patriotic people of Haryana will never accept the divisive and negative politics of the Congress. said PM Modi.

He was also critical of Congress for making statements about abolishing reservation, using it to pit the Dalits and OBCs against the grand old party.

Congress leaders have expressed their intentions by making a statement to end reservation. The backward and Dalit community of Haryana is already angry with the Congress for failing to stop caste violence. Therefore, people have decided to punish the Congress again. Only one voice is coming from every street of Haryana – Bharosa Dil Se, BJP Phir Se PM Modi wrote on X.

Campaigning Strategies

The Congress is banking on anti-incumbency sentiments and key issues such as the farmers protests and the controversial Agnipath Scheme to sway voters against the BJP. The BJP, on the other hand, is highlighting its development achievements over the past decade. The Prime Minister held four rallies in the state, focusing on corruption in land deals, urban-Naxal agendas, reservations, appeasement, dynasty politics, and Article 370.

The Congress campaign, led by senior leader and former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, has faced internal challenges. Prominent Dalit leader Kumari Selja expressed dissatisfaction with Hoodas dominance in party affairs, including ticket distribution. Despite this, the Congress campaign gained momentum with the support of wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, who joined the party ranks, along with several leaders from other parties.

Internal Party Dynamics

The Congresss internal dynamics have been a point of contention, with Kumari Seljas public dissatisfaction highlighting the challenges within the party. Her interview with Lallantop revealed a strained relationship with Bhupinder Singh Hooda, reflecting broader issues of leadership and unity within the Congress.

Despite these challenges, the Congress has managed to rally significant support, with high-profile endorsements and defections from other parties bolstering its campaign. Just before campaigning ended, Dalit politician Ashok Tanwar had left BJP for Congress. The switch came on the same day as the BJP ran advertisements accusing Congress of being anti-dalit.

The presence of prominent leaders like Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Priyanka Gandhi at rallies across the state has further energized the partys base. As Haryana heads to the polls, BJPs focus on development and national issues contrasts sharply with the Congresss emphasis on local grievances and anti-incumbency. The diverse voter base, influenced by caste dynamics and rural concerns, will play a pivotal role in determining the states next government.

Haryana goes to polls across all 90 legislative assembly constituencies on October 5. Counting of votes will be done on October 8.

BJPs Election Manifesto for Haryana Assembly Polls:

Congress Saat Vaade, Pakke Iraade (Seven Promises, Firm Intentions) poll promise: