Nayab Singh Saini emerges as BJP's rising star in Haryana

Nayab Singh Saini's leadership reshaped Haryana politics, securing BJP's historic third consecutive electoral victory.

- NEERAJ MOHAN

When the BJP pulled off a stunning victory in the October 2024 Haryana Assembly elections—securing a historic third consecutive term despite a strong anti-incumbency wave—it not only surprised political observers but also signaled the rise of a new political face in the state: Nayab Singh Saini.

Saini, a prominent OBC leader, took over as Chief Minister in March 2024 following the sudden shift of former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar to national politics. Since then, he has steadily consolidated his position.

Saini was among the few BJP leaders declared as the party's CM candidate even before the polls were announced.

Less than six months after the BJP lost five Lok Sabha seats in Haryana, Saini's leadership not only helped the party make history with a third straight term but also improved its tally from 40 to 48 seats in the 90-member Haryana Assembly.

His rise has been aided by a fractured opposition. Despite winning 37 seats, the Congress is yet to appoint a Leader of the Opposition. This absence of a strong and united opposition has given the BJP and Saini enough space to focus on governance and sharpen their political messaging. The party's position was further strengthened after its sweeping victory in the mayoral elections.

A study of Saini's 13-month tenure as Haryana Chief Minister reveals an eventful period marked by three major elections and nearly four months under the Model Code of Conduct. Despite these political roadblocks, Saini has managed to accumulate significant political capital, signaling his growing influence in state politics.