Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini expressed strong confidence on Tuesday about his party's prospects in neighboring Punjab. Speaking ahead of the Punjab assembly elections scheduled for February-March next year, Saini made a bold prediction. He claimed the Bharatiya Janata Party would form the next government in Punjab completely on its own strength.
No Alliance Possibilities in Punjab
During an interaction with select journalists at his Chandigarh residence, Saini completely ruled out any political partnerships. He stated he sees absolutely no scope for alliances in Punjab's political landscape. The Haryana chief minister asserted that people in Punjab are increasingly drawn to BJP policies. He believes they are now keen to vote directly for the saffron party without needing coalition partners.
Drawing Parallels with Haryana's Success
Saini drew direct comparisons with his own state's recent electoral history. He recalled how many political observers doubted BJP's chances in Haryana. Critics questioned whether the party could secure a third consecutive term in power. The chief minister noted that these doubters were ultimately proven wrong.
"Many people took my words lightly last year when I said BJP would repeat in Haryana for the third time," Saini remarked. "But not only did we return to power, we came back with a full majority. Mark my words carefully - BJP is coming to power in Punjab as well."
Frequent Punjab Visits and Cultural Connections
The Haryana chief minister has made numerous trips to Punjab in recent months. During these visits, he has often been seen wearing a traditional 'pagri' or turban. This cultural gesture has not gone unnoticed by political observers and local residents. Saini explained that these visits occur purely through public invitation.
"I am going only where people invite me," he stated clearly. The chief minister confirmed he will attend the Maghi Mela in Punjab. This marks the first time the BJP is holding an event at this significant cultural gathering.
Criticism of AAP Leadership
Saini took direct aim at the current Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government. He claimed that people in the state have grown tired of what he called a 'chutkula' or joke-cracking chief minister. According to Saini, Punjab residents are now actively looking for genuine development instead of entertainment.
"When people compare Haryana's development with Punjab's current situation, they feel BJP should be brought to power in Punjab too," he argued. The chief minister contrasted central government schemes with state initiatives. He specifically mentioned that people in Punjab find more benefits in the Centre's Ayushman Bharat health scheme than in AAP's "mohalla clinics."
Personal Connections and Historical Ties
Referring to his recent visit to Machiwara, Saini shared an interesting observation. Residents told him that only former Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal previously met people with such closeness. Now they see similar outreach from the Haryana chief minister.
"Punjab and Haryana were one state earlier," Saini noted emotionally. "When I am in Punjab, it genuinely feels like I am visiting my own home."
Expanding Support in Traditional Strongholds
Saini claimed that BJP is gaining significant traction even in traditionally Panthic-dominated areas. He reported receiving strong support during visits to villages in Tarn Taran. The chief minister also noted that substantial numbers of Nihang Sikhs are now attending BJP events.
"Approximately six to seven hundred Nihangs recently visited me at the chief minister's residence," he revealed. "I received an invitation to their sports event and will definitely attend." Saini stressed that these interactions are not politically motivated but reflect genuine cultural connections.
Addressing Haryana's Domestic Matters
Turning to his own state's affairs, Saini addressed upcoming municipal elections. He confirmed that elections in municipal corporations will proceed on schedule. This decision follows the state election commission's timeline.
Regarding Haryana's forthcoming state budget, the chief minister shared his consultation process. He is currently holding discussions across various regions of Haryana. Saini plans to convene a meeting soon with all ninety MLAs and Haryana's Members of Parliament. This gathering will seek their suggestions for the budget preparation.
