The Tribune Interview: Rao Inderjit, Vij respected leaders, but Saini is our only CM face

BJP Haryana election incharge and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is confident of his party securing the third consecutive victory in the state Assembly elections. With the poll just days away, Pradhan is working tirelessly to energise BJP leaders and workers. In an interview with Parveen Arora, Pradhan spoke on the CM face, anti-incumbency and several other issues. Excerpts:

Is there any anti-incumbency in Haryana after 10 years of the BJP government?

Absolutely not. The Opposition may talk about it, but when you meet people on the ground, there is no anti-incumbency. The BJP government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has brought transformative development to the state. Whether it is infrastructure, education, agriculture, or industry, our government has done a lot of work in every sector. People recognise the progress made and appreciate the transparency and efficiency of our governance. I am confident we are going to make a history by forming the government for the third time.

Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh and former Cabinet Minister Anil Vij have both hinted at being contenders for the CM post. Who will be the BJP’s chief ministerial candidate?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself has already declared Nayab Singh Saini as the CM face. He will lead the state again after we form the government. Rao Inderjit Singh and Anil Vij are highly respected senior members of the party. It will be Saini who will take the oath as CM. There’s no question about that.

What is the BJP’s strategy for securing another term in the state?

Our campaign strategy is well-planned. We are performing well on the GT Road belt, which includes cities like Panchkula, Ambala, Yamunanagar, Karnal, Panipat and Sonepat. Our presence in Hisar, Gurugram, and Faridabad is also very strong, as these regions have witnessed significant development under the BJP rule. We are doing well in the Sirsa belt also. Our stronghold on traditional seats is firm. We are making inroads into areas where we previously did not have much influence.

How many seats does the BJP expect to win in the Assembly elections?

We are confident that the BJP will win with a clear majority. The level of enthusiasm among the people and the response to our campaign and rallies make it evident that we are on track for a strong mandate.

Former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda has accused PM Modi of misleading the public about the procurement of 24 crops. He has claimed that not all these crops are cultivated in the state.

Hooda’s comment reveals a lack of understanding about Haryana’s agricultural policies under the BJP government. It is surprising that a person who has served as the CM would make such a statement. The fact is the BJP government in Haryana is the only government that procures 24 crops at MSP. Hooda should correct his knowledge before making baseless allegations. The BJP is committed to the welfare of the farmers.