CONGRESS WILL SWEEP HARYANA, SAYS ASHOK GEHLOT

"Selja herself has given a befitting reply to BJP that she is a Congress person and will remain a Congress person

- AJIT MAINDOLA

A "Congress storm" is brewing across Haryana, said senior Congress leader former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. He said Congress will set a new victory record. In a special interview to the Daily Guardian, Gehlot, who was appointed party observer for Haryana elections, said Rahul Gandhi's initiative to open 'Mohabbat ki Dukan' is effecting a change across the country, and its impact is now evident in Haryana following the Lok Sabha elections. He credits Rahul's resolution, along with the strategies of national president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Priyanka Gandhi, for the likely change in party's fortunes.

Stressing that the Congress is contesting elections united, Gehlot said the public is fed up with the 10 years of BJP rule. The public will answer the negative propaganda that BJP is doing about the party's senior leader Selja on the day of voting. Selja herself has answered that BJP should not spread confusion. Gehlot said in Congress no one is made CM face in advance.

The central leadership of the party approves the decision taken in the meeting of the legislative party after the elections. Excerpts from the interview:

Q: As a senior observer of Haryana elections, what is your assessment?

A: Based on my observations, it seems quite clear that the BJP is going to face a crushing defeat in Haryana. I believe they are likely to experience a substantial defeat in the upcoming elections. Many people in the state are frustrated with what they have seen in ten years of misrule under BJP leadership and have decided to support Congress. Regardless of the propaganda efforts the BJP may employ, I don't think they will be able to influence or sway the public opinion. Both former Chief Minister Manohar Lal and current Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini seem unable to connect with the voters, who appear determined not to be misled any longer.