Haryana BJP Expels 8 Rebel Leaders, Including Minister, Just a Week Before Elections

Chandigarh, India (AP) – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expelled eight prominent leaders from its ranks in Haryana, just one week before crucial state assembly elections. The party’s decision to take disciplinary action comes in response to these leaders running as independent candidates against official BJP nominees. Among those expelled is Ranjit Singh Chautala, the state’s former Minister of Power, who has garnered attention for contesting as an independent.

The BJP’s move reflects the growing tensions within the party as it faces internal dissent ahead of the elections. The expelled leaders have been banned from the party for six years, marking a significant step as the party attempts to maintain discipline and unity among its members.

Key Leaders Among Those Expelled

The list of expelled leaders includes some notable figures in Haryana politics, with Ranjit Singh Chautala being the most high-profile name. Chautala, who held the Power Ministry portfolio, has decided to contest independently from the Rania constituency. His departure from the BJP has caused a stir, given his strong influence and family legacy in Haryana politics.

Another significant name on the list is Devendra Kadian, who is contesting as an independent candidate from the Ganaur constituency. Kadian’s decision to break away from the party’s official candidate has been viewed as a major setback for the BJP in this crucial seat.

The BJP’s action also affects Sandeep Garg (from Ladwa), Jile Ram Sharma (from Assandh), Bachchan Singh Arya (from Safidon), Radha Ahlawat (from Meham), Naveen Goyal (from Gurugram), and Keher Singh Rawat (from Hathin), all of whom are running as independent candidates.

Internal Dissent Ahead of Voting

The decision to expel these leaders highlights the internal strife facing the BJP in Haryana as it heads into the elections. Independent candidacies from party rebels can split the vote, potentially weakening the BJP’s chances in key constituencies. The party leadership took swift action to minimize this risk, ensuring that dissenters do not derail its election campaign.

The expulsions come at a critical time, just a week before voters in Haryana head to the polls. With the state's political dynamics already complex, this internal rift adds another layer of uncertainty to the election outcome.

Party’s Response

The BJP has remained firm in its decision, with party officials emphasizing the need for loyalty and unity within the ranks. Expelling the rebels is part of a broader strategy to consolidate the party's voter base and send a strong message to those contemplating defection.

BJP insiders have noted that the party gave ample warning to these leaders before resorting to expulsion. "The BJP stands for discipline, and those who act against the party’s interests cannot expect to remain within the organization," said a senior BJP leader in Haryana.

Political Impact

As Haryana gears up for its assembly elections, the expulsion of these leaders has sparked debate over the party's handling of internal rebellion. While some believe that the BJP’s strict stance will help it stay strong, others worry that the move could alienate segments of its voter base, especially in constituencies where the expelled leaders hold significant influence.

Ranjit Singh Chautala’s expulsion, in particular, is being closely watched, given his long-standing political career and the weight he carries in his region. His departure from the party raises questions about how the BJP will fare in areas where these leaders have decided to challenge its candidates.

With a week to go until voting day, the political landscape in Haryana remains fluid, and the BJP will be working to mitigate the effects of these expulsions on its overall electoral strategy.