As the Haryana assembly elections approach, the role of regional parties becomes increasingly crucial in shaping the political landscape. Historically, regional parties like the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) have played significant roles in representing local interests and addressing the specific needs of their constituencies.
In the current climate, the prominence of national parties like the BJP and Congress often overshadows these regional entities. However, the decline of traditional regional powerhouses such as the INLD and JJP highlights a critical moment for regional politics. As these parties form alliances with newcomers like the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Azad Samaj Party (ASP), they aim to consolidate their positions and regain lost ground.
Regional parties often have a deeper understanding of local issues, making them essential in areas where national parties may struggle to connect. Their presence in the assembly not only enhances representation but also encourages a more diverse political dialogue that can lead to more tailored policies.
Key Voting Blocks at Stake
With Congress and BJP, the two major political forces, preparing for battle, they are heavily banking on the OBC (Other Backward Class) and Jat vote banks. Notably, the Scheduled Castes (SCs), who comprise approximately 20% of Haryana’s population according to the 2011 Census, could play a crucial role in determining the election outcome.
Regional Alliance Developments
The BJP is actively pursuing alliances with smaller regional parties. Reports suggest potential seat arrangements with Gopal Kanda’s Haryana Lokhit Party and Venod Sharma’s Haryana Jan Chetna Party, with Kanda targeting five seats and Sharma focusing on Ambala City and Kalka. Additionally, Jayant Chaudhary’s Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) is expected to contest in Haryana, aiming to leverage Jat voter support in collaboration with the BJP, with projections for RLD to field candidates for two to four seats.
In contrast, the JJP has formed a partnership with the ASP, which is contesting Haryana elections for the first time. The JJP has allocated 20 seats to ASP, with candidate selection led by the Chautala family. However, BSP’s influence in Haryana has been minimal, reflected in its vote share of just 0.16% in 2019.
Decline of Regional Forces
The INLD, once a significant regional player, has seen a sharp decline in popularity since the emergence of the JJP. Internal conflicts within the Chautala family have contributed to INLD’s downfall, leading to a vote share of just 2.44% in 2019 and only one seat. Although JJP appeared poised to replace INLD, internal rifts have resulted in four of its ten MLAs defecting to the BJP, with only Dushyant Chautala, his mother Naina Chautala, and one other MLA remaining.
A Struggle for Relevance
Political analyst Professor Gurmeet Singh from Punjab University highlights that both JJP and INLD are fighting for relevance in the upcoming elections, positioning themselves as potential kingmakers. “Whatever may be claimed, the reality is that the popularity of both these parties is continuously falling,” he notes. Experts predict a direct contest between Congress and BJP, while regional parties struggle to maintain their relevance.
Historically, regional parties in Haryana have faced challenges in sustaining power. The INLD, led by Om Prakash Chautala, managed to serve a full term only once, from 2000 to 2005. As the political landscape shifts dramatically, regional parties find themselves marginalized and fighting for survival in an increasingly nationalized electoral environment.
Upcoming Election as a Litmus Test
As both JJP and INLD prepare for the assembly polls, these elections represent a crucial moment for both parties, each led by members of former Deputy Prime Minister Devi Lal’s family. The October 5 elections promise to be a thrilling contest amidst an unpredictable electorate and shifting alliances, with regional forces facing an uphill battle to regain their footing.
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