- October 5, 2024
Haryana Votes: Key Moments and High Stakes in 2024 Assembly Elections
Haryana Votes: Key Moments and High Stakes in 2024 Assembly Elections
Haryana Assembly Elections 2024: Major Developments as Voting Progresses
Voting for the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections is in full swing, with polling stations across the state welcoming a significant number of voters since early morning. The process began at 7 AM today and will continue until 6 PM, as more than 2 crore registered voters** are set to exercise their franchise in what is expected to be a highly contested election.
By 3 PM, the Election Commission of India (ECI) reported a voter turnout of 49.13% across the state’s 90 constituencies. Yamunanagar leads the way in terms of voter participation with 56.79%, followed by Mewatand Palwal, both with over 56% voter turnout. Meanwhile, urban districts like Gurugramand Faridabadhave seen the lowest turnout, with38.61% and 41.74%, respectively.
With 1,031 candidates contesting in this year’s elections, major political parties like BJP, Congress, AAP, and regional alliances like JJP-Azad Samaj Party (ASP), are competing for dominance. These elections are pivotal, especially for the ruling BJP under Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini, who is seeking a third consecutive term. However, the Congress is determined to end their decade-long opposition run, led by influential leaders like Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Deepender Hooda.
High-profile candidates cast their votes: Many notable political leaders have already cast their ballots. Former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar confidently predicted the BJP would secure 50 of the 90 seats. Meanwhile, Congress leader Deepender Hooda took a dig at the BJP’s predictions, recalling their reduced seat count in the 2019 elections, when they only won 40 seats despite aiming for 75.
The Congress is hoping for a strong comeback, bolstered by appeals from its leadership. Priyanka Gandhi, addressing the people of Haryana, urged them to cast their vote against the “power of injustice and oppression.” Meanwhile, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized the importance of voters choosing Congress to steer Haryana towards a path of prosperity and social justice.
After casting her vote in Hisar, Kumari Selja, a prominent Congress figure, echoed these sentiments, stating that people had been waiting for this day to bring Congress back to power in Haryana. The Congress is focusing on issues like unemployment, corruption, and law and order, which they believe resonate with voters across the state .
BJP leaders defend their governance: Chief MinisterNaib Singh Saini, while addressing the media, accused Congress of spreading lies and resorting to “jhooth and loot” (lies and plundering). He emphasized that under BJP rule, the state’s governance had been rid of corrupt agents and middlemen. His message is focused on maintaining stability and continuing development projects that have marked the party’s agenda over the last decade.
Similarly, Manohar Lal Khattar, speaking to the press after voting, highlighted the work done by the BJP in eliminating corruption and bringing in economic reforms. He argued that Congress has been unable to match the BJP’s track record and would only plunge the state back into the era of scandals .
AAP’s Kejriwal and Atishi appeal for votes: As AAP seeks to expand its footprint in Haryana, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urged voters to consider a “better future” and make their decision wisely. Atishi, another senior AAP leader, appealed to Haryana voters to focus on key issues such as education, healthcare, and employment opportunities when voting. The party is trying to capitalize on the momentum gained from its governance model in Delhi, projecting itself as a viable alternative to the BJP and Congress.
Dushyant Chautala, the leader of the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), expressed confidence in his party’s alliance with Chandra Shekhar Azad’s Azad Samaj Party (ASP), stating that they are set to win with a “huge majority.” The JJP-ASP alliance hopes to attract support from various sections of Haryana’s electorate, particularly in rural areas, with promises of agrarian reforms and social welfare .
With 20,632 polling booths set up across the state, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is ensuring a smooth and secure voting process. The use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems has been mandated across all booths, guaranteeing transparency. Chief Electoral Officer Pankaj Agarwal reassured voters that stringent security measures are in place, especially in districts known for electoral disputes, and that polling has been peaceful so far.
Despite the general enthusiasm, urban centers like Gurugram, Faridabad, and Panchkula have seen relatively low turnout. Political analysts believe that this could play a crucial role in determining the final election outcome, as urban areas have traditionally favored the BJP. A last-minute surge in voter participation is expected in the final hours of polling.
The results of the Haryana Assembly Elections 2024 will be eagerly awaited as both the BJP and Congress battle for supremacy, while regional players like the JJP and AAP attempt to expand their influence. Counting of votes is scheduled for October 8, and the next few days will see intense speculation about who will form the next government in Haryana.
#HaryanaVotes #DemocracyInAction #AssemblyElections2024 #VoteForChange #HaryanaPolls”