‘Several MLAs in touch’, claims BJP’s ML Khattar amid Haryana turmoil
In Short
- 3 Independent MLAs withdraw support to BJP-led coalition in Haryana
- Khattar asserts several MLAs are in touch with his government
- State government now two short of majority in 90-member House
Former Chief Minister of Haryana, Manohar Lal Khattar, has downplayed the significance of three Independent MLAs withdrawing their support from the Nayab Singh Saini-led government in the state.
Khattar, speaking in the aftermath of this political upheaval, emphasized that the withdrawals would have minimal impact, particularly considering the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly elections in the state.
He further asserted that many MLAs are in contact with his faction.
Khattar’s remarks came shortly after three Independent MLAs announced their decision to withdraw support from the BJP-led coalition in Haryana, signaling a shift in the political landscape.
These MLAs, namely Sombir Sangwan from Dadri, Randhir Singh Gollen from Pundri, and Dharampal Gonder from Nilokheri, declared their support for the Congress party during a press conference held in Rohtak.
Their decision effectively reduced the Nayab Singh Saini government to a minority in the state assembly.
In response to these developments, Khattar maintained that the ongoing election season would overshadow the impact of individual defections.
He indicated that several MLAs were in contact with his government, hinting at potential realignments in political allegiances.
Khattar’s confidence in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) electoral prospects remained unwavering as he expressed assurance in the party’s ability to secure victory in all 10 Lok Sabha seats in Haryana.
He cited past electoral successes and asserted that the BJP would garner increased support in the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, the Nayab Singh Saini-led government, which currently relies on the support of two other Independent MLAs, finds itself two seats short of the majority mark in the 90-member House.
Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) leader Digvijay Singh Chautala urged Leader of the Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda to take decisive action to oust the government, citing a loss of public trust.
In response, Hooda expressed gratitude towards the three withdrawing MLAs for their support and stated that their decision reflected public sentiment.
The Congress party confirmed that the MLAs had formally communicated their withdrawal of support to the Governor.
With assembly elections in Haryana scheduled for October, the political landscape remains dynamic and the forthcoming months are likely to witness intensified political maneuvering and alliances.