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The Haryana Assembly election concluded peacefully on Saturday, with voting ending by evening. According to the Election Commission, the voter turnout was recorded at 61% by 5 PM. As soon as the polls closed, exit poll results started pouring in, showing a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.
Early exit polls indicate that the Indian National Congress (INC) is on course to dethrone the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Haryana. Out of the 90 seats in the state assembly, Congress is projected to secure a lead, with exit polls suggesting it may win around 46 seats, while BJP might claim around 38.
A survey by the Center for Global Studies at Delhi University conducted between September 11 and October 3 forecast that Congress could form the next government in Haryana. This survey involved over 8,400 voters across the state’s 90 constituencies. The exit polls predict a significant loss for the BJP, with Congress expected to win the majority, marking a shift in political control.
Former Haryana Chief Minister and Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda expressed optimism, predicting that Congress would win at least 65 seats. He addressed speculation about the party’s leadership in the state, stating that the decision on the next Chief Minister would be made by the party’s high command and that the final choice would be acceptable to all, including senior leader Kumari Selja.
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat also expressed her excitement about the early trends showing a Congress victory. In a statement to PTI, she said, “This is a moment of joy for the people of Haryana. It reflects the backlash against the injustices faced over the past decade.”
Most exit polls, including those by C-Voter and P-Marq, predict a strong showing for Congress. C-Voter projects Congress winning between 50-58 seats, while BJP may win 20-28 seats. Other smaller parties and independent candidates may secure around 10-14 seats.
Despite the trends, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini remains confident that the BJP will return to power, stating that the final results on October 8 will prove the exit polls wrong.
As the state awaits the official results, there is a growing sense of anticipation, with many political analysts suggesting that the exit polls may signal a new direction for Haryana’s governance. The official results will be announced on October 8, determining whether Congress can capitalize on these predictions and take control of the state.
