As 2024 approaches, neither the ruling party nor the opposition appears capable of independently forming a government in Haryana. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), initially gaining momentum from agitation politics across North India, has yet to establish a strong presence in the state. The party’s historical inability to form a robust organisational structure in Haryana has prompted a shift in strategy from AAP’s high command.
On July 9, the party launched its ‘Bijli Agitation’ in Panchkula, causing waves of political speculation. The campaign, focusing on electricity issues, is seen as a crucial part of AAP’s groundwork for the forthcoming polls. Party leaders, including AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, signalled their determination to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of victory in next year’s Haryana elections.
Posing itself as a unique alternative for Haryana, the party made ambitious promises of comprehensive development, similar to that experienced in Delhi and Punjab under AAP governance. Kejriwal emphasised job creation, free electricity, and education in his address. In a bid to leverage AAP’s successful delivery of free electricity in Delhi and Punjab, this issue was given significant attention during the program.
The event also allowed for interaction with party workers, many of whom raised questions about electricity-related issues, fitting neatly into the agenda of the ‘Bijli Agitation’. It’s worth noting that Haryana and Punjab have faced several contentious issues recently. Punjab’s Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, attempted to foster an emotional connection with Haryana’s populace by expressing concern for them and recognizing the presence of Khap Panchayats in his jurisdiction.
Despite the ongoing push for opposition unity against the central government, Kejriwal didn’t shy away from criticising Congress, citing their failure to address electricity issues during their reign in the state.
AAP’s impact in Haryana remains minimal to date, with the party’s performance in the state being underwhelming, as evidenced by their recent loss in the Adampur bypolls.