BJP Faces Internal Turmoil Ahead of Haryana Assembly Polls

The BJP faces significant internal strife following the release of its first list of candidates for the Haryana assembly polls. Key members, including ministers and MLAs, have resigned or chosen to run as independents after being denied tickets. The dissension threatens BJP's position against a resurgent Congress.

The ruling BJP is grappling with internal turmoil a day after releasing its first list of 67 candidates for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections on October 5. Key figures, including Jails Minister Ranjit Singh Chautala and MLA Lakshman Dass Napa, have resigned after being denied tickets.

Ranjit Singh Chautala, son of former Deputy Prime Minister Devi Lal, decided to contest as an independent candidate after discussing with his supporters. MLA Napa also quit and joined the Congress with his supporters, preferring to align with former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda.

Nayab Singh Saini, the BJP's Chief Ministerial candidate, downplayed the defections, but widespread dissatisfaction within the party poses a significant challenge. The BJP is aiming for a third consecutive term but now faces heightened competition from the Congress, which seeks to capitalize on anti-incumbency sentiments.

(With inputs from agencies.)