Sudden polls catch parties in Haryana off guard

The political landscape in Haryana was rocked by the unexpected declaration of assembly elections by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on October 1.

- NEERAJ MOHAN

The schedule shaves off 21 days from previous elections. However, the announcement, made just 45 days prior to polling, has taken political players by surprise, provoking intense reactions across the spectrum.

In 2019 assembly elections, the call for elections was made on September 19, giving time for extensive preparations. This time, however, the suddenness was compounded by the timing—just four days after the ECI’s ground- monitoring visit to the state, showcasing a rapid shift in the political game.

Political parties were deeply engaged in internal surveys to assess the viability of potential candidates, leaving them ill-equipped for this abrupt announcement. Notably, while the parties appeared caught off guard, they publicly welcomed the elections and asserted their readiness.