As the Haryana Assembly elections approach, political leaders are making a strong push for their respective parties. On Friday, Union Energy Minister and former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar visited Siwan town in the Guhla Assembly constituency to rally support for BJP candidate Kulwant Bazigar. Khattar addressed recent comments by Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Mayawati, who hinted at appointing two Deputy Chief Ministers if the BSP-INLD alliance secures a victory on October 5.
Khattar’s Response to Mayawati
During a press interaction, Khattar responded to Mayawati’s proposal by emphasizing the priority of establishing a Chief Minister before discussing Deputy Chief Ministers. He remarked, “Now Mayawati is also saying that earlier she was talking about making four Deputy Chief Ministers. First, we need to elect a Chief Minister in Haryana; then we can talk about Deputy Chief Ministers.” Khattar’s comments reflect the BJP’s stance on focusing on the leadership structure of the state government rather than on secondary roles.
Mayawati’s Declaration
In her address at a public meeting in Uchana, Jind, marking the 111th birth anniversary of former Deputy Prime Minister Devi Lal, Mayawati declared that in the event of a victory, INLD leader Abhay Singh Chautala would serve as the Chief Minister, with two Deputy Chief Ministers appointed alongside him. Mayawati stated that one Deputy Chief Minister would represent the Dalit community while the other would cater to either the Other Backward Castes or the Upper Castes. This announcement signifies her commitment to addressing social representation in governance.
Calls for Caste-Based Census
Mayawati also voiced her demand for a caste-based census, urging the central government to conduct this survey for the national interest. She noted that previous efforts for such a census were postponed by the Congress government and continue to be delayed under the current BJP-led administration. This demand underscores the ongoing conversation about social equity and representation in Haryana and beyond.
Abhay Chautala’s Welfare Promises
Standing alongside Mayawati, Abhay Chautala outlined several welfare initiatives that would be implemented if their alliance assumes power. These proposals include:
| Welfare Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Free LPG Cylinders | Provision of free LPG cylinders to households. |
| Cash Assistance | Direct cash assistance of Rs 1,100 to families. |
| Free Electricity | Ensuring free electricity for residents. |
| Old Pension Scheme | Restoration of the previous pension scheme. |
| Health Care Support | Free treatment for individuals needing care outside the state. |
| Land for the Poor | Allocation of 100 square yards of land to underprivileged families. |
Election Timeline
The voting for the 90-member Haryana Assembly is scheduled for October 5, with the counting of votes set for October 8. The upcoming elections are poised to shape the political landscape of Haryana, with various parties making their case for leadership and governance.
