Early Trends Show Congress Leading in Haryana, Strong Performance in Jammu & Kashmir - Read Now 

Early results from the Assembly elections indicate a significant lead for the Congress party in Haryana, while the Congress-National Conference (NC) alliance is also performing well in Jammu & Kashmir. If these trends hold, the ruling BJP may face a tough challenge in both states.

Haryana Elections

In Haryana, the initial vote count shows Congress leading in 59 out of 90 Assembly seats, well ahead of the BJP, which is currently leading in 26 seats. The majority mark in the state is set at 46 seats. This strong performance by Congress comes as a surprise, especially considering the BJP's long-standing governance since 2014. Notable candidates include wrestler and Congress candidate Vinesh Phogat, who is leading in Julana, and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, who is ahead in Ladwa.

Polling in Haryana took place on October 5, with a voter turnout of 67.9%. The BJP, grappling with anti-incumbency sentiments, has struggled after its fallout with the Jannayak Janta Party and the replacement of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar with Nayab Singh Saini.

Jammu & Kashmir Elections

Meanwhile, in Jammu & Kashmir, the Congress-NC alliance has crossed the halfway mark with leads in 50 seats, while the BJP has 29 seats. This election is particularly significant as it is the first Assembly election in a decade, following the abrogation of Article 370.

Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, contesting from Ganderbal and Budgam, is leading in both constituencies. The elections in Jammu & Kashmir took place in three phases, and issues such as Article 370, unemployment, and terrorism were key points for voters.

As the counting progresses, the trends suggest a potential shift in power dynamics in both Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. With the Congress party looking to regain control in Haryana and the NC making significant gains in Jammu & Kashmir, the BJP may need to reevaluate its strategies in these crucial states.