Chandigarh, August 20 : In the lead-up to the Haryana Assembly elections, a wave of uncertainty grips the political landscape as more than 30 sitting MLAs find themselves at risk of losing their party tickets. This unsettling development emerges from internal surveys conducted by both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, revealing significant anti-incumbency sentiments against many current legislators.
Among those facing the possibility of losing their tickets, over 20 MLAs are from the BJP, and more than 12 are from the Congress. The surveys have highlighted growing dissatisfaction among voters in several constituencies, prompting both parties to consider fresh faces who may stand a better chance of securing victory in the upcoming elections.
The findings from these surveys have been dispatched to the high command of both parties, who are now tasked with making critical decisions on candidate selection. The BJP has been particularly resolute, making it clear that MLAs who have underperformed or are battling strong anti-incumbency sentiments will be replaced with new, more promising candidates. This move is part of a broader strategy to revitalize the party’s image and boost its chances in key constituencies.
Similarly, the Congress is facing a dilemma with around 10 of its MLAs, many of whom are senior leaders with multiple terms in office. These legislators have been criticized for their lack of activity in their constituencies over the past five years, raising questions about their effectiveness in representing their constituents. The Congress is reportedly preparing to introduce younger, more dynamic candidates in these areas, aiming to rejuvenate its appeal among voters.
The ticket distribution process is being meticulously planned, with party leaderships relying not only on the survey results but also on the performance of MLAs during the recent Lok Sabha elections. A report card is being prepared based on the votes received in these elections, serving as a key metric in determining the fate of sitting MLAs. In constituencies where the party performed well in the Lok Sabha elections, the incumbent MLA’s ticket is likely secure. However, in areas where the party’s performance was lackluster, there is increased scrutiny, and changes are expected.
Adding to the pressure, the BJP has introduced a new rule mandating that any office-bearer applying for an assembly ticket must first resign from their current position. This policy is designed to ensure that only the most committed and capable candidates are considered for the upcoming elections.
The Congress, on the other hand, has taken a firm stance against leaders who have repeatedly failed to win elections. The party has made it clear that those who have lost in the last two consecutive elections or forfeited their deposits will not be granted tickets, signaling a shift towards a more results-oriented approach in candidate selection.
As the election date approaches, both parties are engaged in a delicate balancing act, trying to navigate the challenges posed by anti-incumbency while also addressing internal party dynamics. The final list of candidates is eagerly awaited, as it will offer a glimpse into the strategies both the BJP and Congress will employ to overcome the hurdles in what promises to be a closely contested election.
