Rahul Gandhi Discusses INDIA Bloc Strategy for Haryana Polls

In a key CEC meeting, Rahul Gandhi explored election strategies for Haryana, proposing an INDIA bloc approach. Discussions on ticket allocations and alliances were held, finalizing 34 candidates with remaining decisions pending. Polling will occur on October 5, with results expected by October 8.

At the Congress's Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting discussing ticket allocations for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections, Rahul Gandhi raised the possibility of contesting as the INDIA bloc, sources disclosed. The meeting, held at the Congress Headquarters in New Delhi on Monday, focused on ensuring undivided alliance votes.

Reacting to Gandhi's proposal, former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda remarked that although they are willing to offer 3-4 seats to AAP, the latter's higher demands make forming an alliance challenging, sources noted. Sources also mentioned that Hooda will run from the Garhi Sampla Kiloi constituency, while state president Udaybhan will vie for the Hodal constituency. Discussions did not extend to prospective candidates like Vinesh Phogat and Rajya Sabha MPs Kumari Selja and Randeep Surjewala.

The CEC reviewed candidacies for 49 of the state's constituencies, finalizing names for 34. The remaining 15 seats are under further review, with a complete candidates list expected shortly, according to AICC Haryana in-charge Deepak Babaria. The party aims to finalize all names, including Vinesh Phogat's candidacy, within two days.

The Haryana elections, set for a single phase on October 5, will see vote counting on October 8. The Election Commission of India revised the polling date from October 1 to October 5 and moved the vote count from October 4 to October 8 for both Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana assemblies.

(With inputs from agencies.)