BJP Organizes Intensive Mock Polling Session for Haryana Rajya Sabha Elections
In a strategic move ahead of the crucial Rajya Sabha elections, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs and independent legislators participated in a rigorous five-hour mock polling session in Chandigarh on Saturday. This training is part of a two-day mission orchestrated by the BJP to secure victory for its official nominee, former MP Sanjay Bhatia, in the upcoming polls scheduled for Monday.
Technical Training and Vote Procedures Emphasized
According to sources, the MLAs received comprehensive instruction on voting procedures, including how to cast ballots for independent MLA Satish Nandal. Nandal, who filed nomination papers with recommendations from independent and BJP MLAs, is expected to contest against Congress nominee Karamveer Baudh. Baudh reportedly enjoys the support of 37 MLAs, setting the stage for a competitive election.
The training sessions were conducted by subject experts, including former law officers and assembly officials with extensive polling experience. These experts provided technical guidance on the do's and don'ts of voting, covering everything from procuring ballot papers to properly marking and exhibiting votes to party polling agents before depositing them in ballot boxes. MLAs were cautioned against negligence and urged to adhere strictly to instructions to avoid any mishaps.
Political Landscape and Strategic Preparations
The Haryana Legislative Assembly comprises 90 members, and the Rajya Sabha elections for two seats have been necessitated by the impending end of terms for MPs Ram Chander Jangra and Kiran Chaudhary in April. Each candidate must secure a minimum of 31 MLA votes to be elected, making every vote critical in this tightly contested race.
In the current assembly, the BJP holds the largest bloc with 48 MLAs and has the backing of three independent MLAs. Meanwhile, the Congress has 37 MLAs, and two MLAs from the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) have yet to declare their stance. The independent candidate is banking on potential cross-voting or support from Congress MLAs to bolster his chances.
Anticipating possible cross-voting and drawing lessons from recent election scenarios like those in Himachal Pradesh, the Congress has relocated its MLAs to Shimla in Himachal Pradesh as a precautionary measure.
Appointment of Election Agents and Representatives
To oversee the election process, the BJP has appointed minister Krishan Bedi as the election agent. Additionally, cabinet minister Ranbir Singh Gangwa and MLA Yogender Rana will serve as counting agents for the Haryana Rajya Sabha elections. Sports minister Gaurav Gautam and MLA Sunil Sangwan have been tasked with responsibilities as party representative and party agent, respectively.
Furthermore, the BJP has designated Chetan Mittal and Ghanshyam as counting agents, with these appointments applying to both candidates in the election. This meticulous planning underscores the party's commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful electoral outcome.
The MLAs had initially gathered in Chandigarh on Friday for a day-long training session at Panch Kamal, followed by the reassembly at a private hotel on Saturday for the mock polling exercise. These efforts highlight the BJP's proactive approach to navigating the complexities of the Rajya Sabha elections and securing a favorable result.
