Nayab Singh Saini, a prominent OBC leader, is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Haryana for the second time after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won its third consecutive state election. Saini was unanimously elected as the BJP's Legislature Party leader during a meeting held on Wednesday. After his election, he met with Governor Bandaru Dattatreya to formally stake his claim to form the government.
The swearing-in ceremony will take place in Panchkula on Thursday, coinciding with Valmiki Jayanti, a significant day for the Dalit community. The timing of the ceremony highlights the BJP's outreach to the Dalit community, who played a key role in the party's recent victory. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and several Chief Ministers from BJP-ruled states are expected to attend the event.
Valmiki Jayanti, also known as "Pargat Diwas," celebrates the life of Valmiki, the author of the Ramayana, and is widely observed by the Valmiki community. By holding the oath ceremony on this day, the BJP aims to send a message of inclusivity and respect toward the Dalit community. This move is seen as part of the party's broader strategy to strengthen ties with the community, particularly after some challenges during the Lok Sabha elections related to concerns over Constitutional amendments and reservations.
Political analysts have noted that the BJP's approach is proactive, aiming to unite various communities amidst opposition parties' focus on caste-based politics. Both RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat and Prime Minister Modi have recently spoken against attempts to divide Hindus along caste lines.
Saini, who is 54, will take the oath of office at Parade Ground in Panchkula. Three Independent MLAs, Savitri Jindal, Devendra Kadyan, and Rajesh Doon, have pledged their support to the new government.
After being chosen as the legislative party leader, Saini expressed his gratitude, stating, "The people of Haryana have placed their faith in the policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and have chosen the BJP for a third time. The people are committed to advancing Prime Minister Modi's vision of making India a developed nation by 2047."
Saini’s nomination as the BJP Legislature Party leader was proposed by Krishan Kumar Bedi and Anil Vij. The BJP managed to secure 48 seats in the 90-seat Haryana Assembly, defeating anti-incumbency sentiments. The Congress won 37 seats, while the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) secured two, with three Independent candidates also elected. All three Independents have extended unconditional support to Saini's government.
Saini's return as Chief Minister follows his earlier appointment to the role in March, after the resignation of Manohar Lal Khattar, who stepped down ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
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