The 2024 Haryana Assembly election results were nothing short of a dramatic political showdown. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a decisive victory by defying early exit poll predictions, marking its third consecutive term in the northern state. Out of the 90 assembly seats, the BJP won 48 seats, solidifying its position as the dominant political force in Haryana. The Congress Party, despite a strong campaign, managed to win 37 seats, positioning itself as the principal opposition party.

This election witnessed significant political developments, including the rise of new leaders, the fall of old dynasties, and the crumbling influence of once-powerful regional players. This detailed analysis explores the key results, major winners, the role of caste and community politics, and the implications of the election outcome for the future of Haryana.

Introduction

The Haryana Assembly Election 2024 saw intense political competition, with the BJP and Congress emerging as the key players. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini led the BJP to victory, securing 48 out of 90 seats, while Congress put up a strong fight with 37 seats under the leadership of Bhupinder Singh Hooda. Other parties, including the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) and independent candidates, played minor roles in this high-stakes election.

Overview of the 2024 Haryana Assembly Election

Haryana, a politically strategic state, witnessed a high voter turnout of 73% in the 2024 assembly elections. The BJP’s well-crafted election campaign, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and CM Nayab Singh Saini, focused on development, stability, and social welfare, consolidating its appeal among non-Jaat and Other Backward Classes (OBC) voters. On the other hand, the Congress, under former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, promised reforms, social justice, and better governance, gaining traction among Jaat voters and the youth.

BJP’s Third Term Victory

The Bharatiya Janata Party’s victory marked its third consecutive term in power, a feat that has further cemented its dominance in Haryana politics. Despite a slow start in early trends, where the party appeared to be trailing, the BJP made a miraculous recovery, thanks to its strong grassroots organization and vote management in key constituencies.

One of the key factors behind BJP’s success was its ability to unite non-Jaat and non-Muslim voters under a development-oriented agenda. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini’s popularity, combined with the national leadership’s influence, helped the party capture 48 seats, enabling it to form the government comfortably.

Congress’ Strong Opposition Performance

The Congress, led by Bhupinder Singh Hooda, showed a significant improvement over its previous performance in the 2019 elections. Winning 37 seats, Congress solidified its position as the main opposition party in Haryana. Hooda’s leadership and his deep-rooted connections with the Jaat community played a crucial role in reviving Congress’ fortunes, particularly in rural areas.

Hooda’s massive victory from Garhi Sampla-Kiloi, with a margin of over 71,000 votes, demonstrated his continuing popularity among voters.

Key Leaders in the Spotlight

Nayab Singh Saini

The BJP’s Nayab Singh Saini, who contested from the Ladwa constituency, was a central figure in the party’s victory. His successful re-election reinforced his status as a prominent leader, with many viewing him as a potential candidate for future national roles.

Bhupinder Singh Hooda

Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s victory in Garhi Sampla-Kiloi confirmed his dominance in Haryana politics. Despite Congress losing the election, Hooda’s leadership and ability to connect with the electorate have kept him as a force to reckon with.

Vinesh Phogat

One of the most intriguing stories from the 2024 election was the entry of international wrestler Vinesh Phogat into politics. Contesting from the Julana seat under the Congress banner, Phogat secured a win, marking her political debut with success. Her win showcased the increasing appeal of sports personalities in politics.

Decline of Regional Parties

The 2024 elections were a tough battle for regional parties like the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), led by Dushyant Chautala. Once considered a kingmaker in Haryana politics, the JJP faced a major defeat. Dushyant Chautala, the great-grandson of former Deputy Prime Minister Devi Lal, lost his Uchan Kalan seat, signaling the declining influence of the Chautala family in Haryana.

The JJP had allied with Chandrashekhar Azad’s Azad Samaj Party (ASP-Kanshi Ram) but failed to make any significant impact, with the JJP winning only a handful of seats.

Caste and Community Dynamics

Caste politics has always played a pivotal role in the Haryana elections. This time, BJP’s strategy focused on consolidating the non-Jaat votes, which include communities like Punjabis, Gujjars, and OBCs. The party also managed to capture a significant portion of the Scheduled Caste (SC) votes.

Traditionally supported by the Jaat community, Congress retained its stronghold among Jaat voters but could not make inroads among other communities, which restricted its ability to win more seats.

Exit Poll Predictions vs. Final Results

The final results of the Haryana Assembly Election 2024 surprised many political analysts. Most exit polls had predicted a close contest between the BJP and Congress, with some even suggesting a hung assembly. However, the BJP’s strong finish defied these expectations, as the party surged ahead in the final count, securing 48 seats.

Exit polls had also predicted a better performance for the JJP and smaller parties, but their actual showing was far below expectations.

Seat-Wise Results: A Detailed Breakdown

The following table provides a detailed seat-wise breakdown of the Haryana election results:

This table is a partial list, illustrating the spread of victories across constituencies for both the BJP, Congress, and independent candidates.

Independent Candidates and Smaller Parties

Independent candidates and smaller parties played a minor but significant role in the 2024 elections. Savitri Jindal, India’s richest woman and former BJP leader, made headlines by winning from the Hisar constituency as an independent. Devender Kadyan also won from Ganaur as an independent, after leaving the BJP shortly before the elections.

Implications for National Politics

The BJP’s victory in Haryana is likely to have far-reaching implications on the national political landscape. As Haryana is strategically important for the BJP, this victory is seen as a morale booster for the party ahead of the 2024 general elections. The Congress, despite its loss, showed that it still holds substantial influence in Haryana, particularly under strong regional leaders like Bhupinder Singh Hooda.

Challenges for the New Government

With a new mandate, the BJP-led government faces several challenges. Key issues include addressing farmers’ grievances, managing caste-based tensions, and ensuring equitable development across the state. The agrarian crisis and employment for youth are likely to remain significant concerns for the government moving forward.

Conclusion

The 2024 Haryana Assembly elections were marked by surprises, comebacks, and political shifts. The BJP’s third consecutive victory underlines its growing influence in Haryana, while Congress remains a formidable opposition force. The decline of regional parties like the JJP signals a potential shift in the state’s political dynamics. With new faces like Vinesh Phogat entering the political arena, the future of Haryana politics promises to be dynamic and unpredictable.

FAQs

1. How many seats did the BJP win in the 2024 Haryana elections?
   • The BJP won 48 seats in the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections.
2. Who won the Garhi Sampla-Kiloi seat in 2024?
   • Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda of Congress won the Garhi Sampla-Kiloi seat.
3. What was the performance of the JJP in the 2024 elections?
   • The JJP performed poorly, with its leader Dushyant Chautala losing his Uchan Kalan seat.
4. Who is the new Chief Minister of Haryana?
   • Nayab Singh Saini of the BJP is expected to continue as Chief Minister following the party’s victory.
5. Which independent candidate won from Hisar?
   • Savitri Jindal, contesting as an independent, won from the Hisar constituency.

Iran’s political system is unique, blending elements of theocratic and democratic governance, with the Supreme Leader at the pinnacle of power. The position, established after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, grants the Supreme Leader control over both the state’s religious and political spheres. This office holds vast authority, overseeing the armed forces, the judiciary, and key councils that influence legislation and policy. The Supreme Leader also has the power to appoint heads of influential institutions, making the position the ultimate arbiter of national direction and priorities. The current holder of this role, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has shaped the country’s politics and ideology since he succeeded Ayatollah Khomeini in 1989.

Early Life and Rise of Ayatollah Khamenei

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was born in 1939 in Mashhad, a holy city in northeastern Iran, to a religious family. He was educated in Islamic theology from a young age and studied under prominent clerics, including Ayatollah Khomeini, the leader of the Iranian Revolution. Khamenei became politically active during his youth, opposing the Shah’s regime, which he viewed as oppressive and corrupt. His involvement in revolutionary activities led to his imprisonment and exile during the 1960s and 70s.

Following the revolution in 1979, Khamenei quickly rose through the ranks of the new Islamic government, serving as president of Iran from 1981 to 1989. Upon the death of Ayatollah Khomeini, Khamenei was chosen as his successor as Supreme Leader, despite some controversy surrounding his religious credentials. Since then, he has solidified his position as one of the most powerful figures in Iran.

Supreme Leader’s Role in Iran’s Political System

The Supreme Leader holds the highest position in Iran’s political system, with ultimate authority over key aspects of governance. This role gives the leader control over the military, the media, and the judiciary, as well as influence over both domestic and foreign policy decisions. While Iran has an elected president and parliament, their powers are limited compared to those of the Supreme Leader, who can veto legislation and intervene in political affairs at any time.

In addition to his formal powers, Khamenei wields significant influence through his ability to shape the ideological direction of the country. His speeches and decisions often reflect a conservative stance, emphasizing the need to preserve the Islamic character of the nation and resist foreign influence. This centralized power has allowed Khamenei to maintain stability, but it has also stifled political dissent and limited reforms.

Religious Authority and Influence on Shia Islam

As Supreme Leader, Khamenei not only governs the political system but also serves as the highest religious authority in Iran. His position as a marja’, or source of emulation, grants him considerable influence within the global Shia community. Khamenei’s interpretations of Islamic law and his guidance on religious matters are followed by millions of Shia Muslims in Iran and beyond.

He has worked to maintain the revolutionary ideals of Ayatollah Khomeini, particularly the principle of Velayat-e Faqih (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist), which asserts that a senior cleric should lead both religious and political life. Khamenei’s religious leadership has shaped Iran’s moral and cultural policies, promoting a strict adherence to Islamic values and resisting Western cultural influences. This has affected everything from education and media to social norms in Iran.

Khamenei’s Impact on Iran’s Foreign Policy

Khamenei plays a central role in shaping Iran’s foreign policy, which reflects a combination of ideological commitment to the Islamic revolution and pragmatic concerns about national security. Under his leadership, Iran has pursued a policy of “resistance” against Western influence, particularly the United States and Israel. Khamenei views these countries as hostile forces seeking to undermine Iran’s sovereignty and its role in the Middle East.

Khamenei has supported Iran’s alliances with non-state actors like Hezbollah in Lebanon and various Shia militias in Iraq and Syria. His foreign policy is largely defined by Iran’s ambition to become a regional power and counterbalance Sunni Arab states, especially Saudi Arabia. While the country has faced heavy international sanctions, particularly due to its nuclear program, Khamenei has remained steadfast in his stance, portraying Iran as a victim of Western aggression.

Economic Policies and Domestic Governance

Economically, Khamenei’s leadership has seen a blend of state control and limited market reforms. He has promoted self-reliance, particularly in the face of international sanctions, through policies aimed at reducing Iran’s dependence on foreign imports and boosting domestic production, particularly in sectors like oil, gas, and agriculture. However, these policies, known as the “Resistance Economy,” have not fully alleviated the economic challenges facing Iran.

Under Khamenei’s leadership, Iran’s economy has struggled with high inflation, unemployment, and corruption. While sanctions, especially those targeting Iran’s oil exports, have exacerbated the situation, economic mismanagement and government inefficiency have also played a role. Despite these issues, Khamenei has remained resistant to significant economic reforms that would liberalize the economy, often citing the need to protect Iran’s independence and Islamic values.

Human Rights and Social Issues Under Khamenei

Under Khamenei, Iran’s human rights record has been criticized, particularly for restrictions on freedom of speech, assembly, and press. Political dissent is often suppressed, and activists, journalists, and opposition figures frequently face imprisonment. Iran’s treatment of women, who are subject to strict dress codes and limited in their participation in public life, has also drawn international attention. Although the government has taken steps to address social issues like poverty and healthcare, these efforts have been hampered by economic hardships, leading to widespread discontent.

Khamenei’s Relationship with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard

Khamenei’s relationship with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is critical to his leadership. The IRGC, created after the revolution to protect the Islamic Republic, has become a powerful institution that wields significant influence in Iran’s political, military, and economic spheres. Khamenei has relied on the IRGC to maintain control over internal dissent and to project Iran’s power abroad, particularly in Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon.

Challenges and Opposition to Khamenei’s Leadership

Khamenei has faced considerable challenges during his tenure. Domestically, reformists and opposition groups have called for more political freedoms and social reforms, while economic hardships and sanctions have led to widespread protests. Internationally, Khamenei has had to navigate tensions with the West, particularly over Iran’s nuclear program and its regional ambitions. Despite these challenges, Khamenei has managed to maintain power, thanks in part to his control over key institutions like the IRGC and judiciary.

The Future of Iran’s Supreme Leadership Post-Khamenei

As Khamenei ages, questions about his succession have become more urgent. The process of selecting a new Supreme Leader will be managed by the Assembly of Experts, but the IRGC is likely to play a significant role in determining the outcome. There is speculation that Khamenei’s successor may continue his conservative policies, although some hope for a more moderate leader who could implement reforms. The future of Iran’s leadership will have profound implications for the country’s direction, both domestically and on the global stage.

New Delhi, September 10, 2024 — In a key development, Sitaram Yechury, General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), has been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi. According to sources within the party, the veteran politician, aged 71 years, is currently under medical supervision owing to a severe chest infection.

Current Health Status and Medical Attention

Sitaram Yechury was admitted to AIIMS in New Delhi for complaints of acute respiratory discomfort. He was immediately admitted to the ICU where he is currently receiving Intensive care and is being constantly under the observation of a team of specialist doctors. Reports say that Yechury was critical and in order to continue breathing, he had to take respiratory support.

The treating doctors at AIIMS have issued a statement stating that he is being treated for a chest infection and is s Surviving on advanced respiratory support. The medical team looking after him includes senior pulmonologists and critical care specialists who are continuously monitoring the vital parameters. Sources say, though serious, he is stable and showing gradual signs of improvement. The medical team remains hopeful but very cautious about his recovery because the condition is quite complex.

Cause of the Infection and Treatment Protocol

The medical fraternity has not yet been able to ascertain the exact cause of this chest infection for which Sitaram Yechury has been admitted to the hospital. However, most elderly patients, especially those with other co-morbid conditions, usually fall prey to such severe respiratory infections. He is being treated with a battery of antibiotics and antiviral medication along with other supportive therapies to manage his symptoms effectively.

Given the age and serious infection, doctors have opted for a highly individualized treatment for Yechury. The line of treatment will target the disease that caused the infection and any complications that may arise. His vital functions are being sustained by the medical team, as well as trying to minimize the risk of further deterioration. All the required protocols have been maintained to provide him with the best possible care at AIIMS.

Family and Party Reactions

The family of Sitaram Yechury has expressed their gratitude to the medical team at AIIMS for their dedicated care. They have sought privacy during this trying time and called on supporters and well-wishers to desist from visiting the hospital on account of the medical situation that has arisen.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) issued a statement expressing its deep concern over the health of its General Secretary. From the highest level of leadership to the grassroots workers, everybody is keeping their fingers crossed as the party waits with bated breath. A host of senior leaders, including Prakash Karat, Brinda Karat, and other Politburo members, have visited AIIMS to inquire about his health. In one press release, CPI(M) called for patience and solidarity among its supporters to wait for an official update on his health condition.

Public Reactions and Political Impact

The sudden hospitalization of Yechury has sent shockwaves through India’s political spectrum. An uncompromising voice for social justice, economic equality, and secularism, he is a known critic of the present government and one of the most strong voices from the left. His health has, therefore, brought him to the notice of his supporters and party members, who saw him as the pivot by which democratic values are being championed in this country.

Messages of goodwill for his speedy recovery have been pouring in from leaders of many political parties. “Wishing Comrade @SitaramYechury a speedy recovery. Hope you are back in action soon,” Rahul Gandhi said in a tweet. Mamata Banerjee and many others wished health and prayed for his well-being. Social media remained abuzz with messages of support and solidarity across the nation for Yechury, reflecting the deep respect he commands across political lines.

A Closer Look into the Political Career of Sitaram Yechury

Sitaram Yechury has been a stalwart of the CPI(M) for a long period and an iconic figure in Indian politics. He succeeded Prakash Karat as General Secretary in 2015 and ever since then has been at the helm of many major movements and campaigns. For more than four decades, Yechury has enjoyed widespread recognition owing to his eloquent speeches, tactful intelligence, and firm adherence to the Marxist ideology.

A graduate of Jawaharlal Nehru University, Yechuri began his political career in the student’s movement and came up the ladder fast in the CPI(M) party. All these years, he played an important role in shaping the party’s policies, especially those related to social justice, secularism, and economic reform. Hence, he has contributed a great deal to the party and the general left movement in India. It is for this that he enjoys the reputation of being a thinking member and a stout contender for progressive politics.

What Lies Ahead? Road to Recovery

Recovery is bound to be gradual as the medical team at AIIMS continues to accord critical care to Sitaram Yechury. At his age and criticality of the condition, doctors are cautious but optimistic about his prospects. The next few days will be important during which his response to treatment will determine the future course of his care plan.

The CPI(M) and people loyal to Yechury are quite hopeful that he will recover soon, but they also realize that patience and a comprehensive medical care approach are key. His family has thanked the public for being concerned about his ill health and has reassured the people that he is getting the best possible treatment.

People Call for Prayers, Support
The CPI(M) has called upon all its members and supporters to stay calm and united while Sitaram Yechury wages his war against his illness. They have also asked people to respect the privacy of Yechury’s family and desist from rumor mongering or spreading any unverified information. Prayers and good wishes are pouring in from all corners of the country, reflecting a deep respect and affection that Sitaram Yechury draws.

As the country waits for more news about his condition, it is unified by the hope that he would recover fully and soon.