The Bharatiya Janata Party, aiming for a third consecutive term, faces strong challenges from the Congress and the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), both seeking to reshape the political landscape of Haryana. Chief Minister Saini is contesting from Ladwa in Kurukshetra, while Hooda, a prominent Congress leader, is hoping to return the party to power after a decade. Phogat, a former wrestler, is vying for a seat in Julana. Dushyant Chautala, a key figure in the JJP, is in the fray from Uchana Kalan.
With over 20,600 polling booths set up, approximately 20.3 million registered voters, including 8,821 centenarians, are eligible to cast their ballots. Early voter turnout has included notable figures, with Saini casting his vote in his home village of Mirza in Ambala district. Former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar was also among the early voters, casting his ballot in Karnal.
The election marks a critical moment for Haryana’s future leadership, with the BJP banking on its performance in the last two terms. However, Congress has made strategic alliances, notably leaving the Bhiwani seat to CPI(M), a part of the broader INDIA bloc, to increase its chances. The JJP, part of the ruling coalition since 2019, will also look to cement its role in the state’s governance.
Polling stations, monitored through extensive webcasting, were bolstered by significant security measures, including 225 companies of Central Armed Police Forces, aimed at ensuring peaceful and fair elections. Haryana’s Director General of Police, Shatrujeet Kapur, has expressed confidence in the state’s preparation for a secure election.
Some of the most significant battles are unfolding in key constituencies. Former MP Shruti Choudhry, a member of the BJP, is contesting from Tosham against her cousin, Congress candidate Anirudh Chaudhary. Meanwhile, in Dabwali, the Chautala family rivalry continues with INLD’s Aditya Devi Lal competing against Digvijay Singh Chautala of JJP. Another high-stakes contest is taking place in Hisar, where Bhavya Bishnoi, grandson of former chief minister Bhajan Lal, represents the BJP.