The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has finalized its candidates for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections, slated for October 5, 2024. The party on Tuesday revealed its second list of 21 candidates, completing its lineup for all 90 constituencies. Among the notable names is Captain Yogesh Bairagi, who will contest from Julana, where Congress’ Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat is expected to make her political debut.

With its first list of 67 candidates released earlier, the BJP has introduced several fresh faces while replacing a significant number of sitting MLAs. The total number of new candidates fielded is 25, reflecting the party’s focus on bringing fresh energy to its campaign. However, the reshuffling has led to internal unrest within the party, with several senior leaders expressing their disappointment over being denied tickets. One of the prominent rebels is Ranjit Chautala, a sitting minister who has now chosen to contest as an independent from Rania, Sirsa district.

BJP’s New Faces and Strategic Moves

The second list released by the BJP highlights the party’s determination to reshape its image in Haryana. Manish Grovar will contest from Rohtak, a key battleground where the BJP will face stiff competition. Sanjay Singh, representing Nuh, and Aizaz Khan, contesting from Punahana, are also among the notable candidates on the BJP’s slate.

The party’s move to replace 40 sitting MLAs has caused a stir within its ranks. Ranjit Chautala’s decision to run as an independent comes after being dropped from the BJP’s ticket allocation. His departure could impact the party’s prospects in Rania, where he has a significant support base.

Key Candidates to Watch

  • Captain Yogesh Bairagi (Julana): The BJP has fielded Captain Yogesh Bairagi in Julana, where Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat of the Congress is expected to launch her political career. This matchup could become one of the most closely watched battles in Haryana.
  • Manish Grovar (Rohtak): Grovar will take on contenders from various parties in Rohtak, which has historically been a stronghold for Congress.
  • Aizaz Khan (Punahana): Khan’s nomination in Punahana signifies the party’s efforts to make inroads in the Mewat region, traditionally considered a challenging area for the BJP.

Party Rebels and Internal Conflicts

Despite the efforts to revamp its candidate list, the BJP is facing significant internal turmoil. With 40 sitting MLAs being replaced, several disgruntled leaders have voiced their displeasure. Ranjit Chautala’s rebellion is perhaps the most visible sign of the unrest. After being denied a ticket, Chautala has vowed to contest the election independently from Rania, Sirsa, a constituency he has represented for several years.

While the BJP has yet to comment on how it plans to handle these internal conflicts, the party will need to ensure unity if it aims to retain power in Haryana.