Khaps’ ultimatum to independent MLAs adds to BJP woes in Haryana

The ongoing farmers’ agitation seems to be giving new problems to the BJP as independent legislators in Haryana continue to extend support to the agrarian community sitting on protest. The khaps’ ultimatum to independent MLAs has led to speculation in the political arena in the state.

In the wake of the khaps’ decision to support the farmers’ agitation, one of the independent MLAs, Somveer Sangwan, had withdrawn his support from the BJP-JJP government. Prior to this, another independent MLA Balraj Kundu also had come out in support of the farmers. Thus, there are five independent legislators left supporting the alliance government and out of these, Ranjeet Singh Chautala holds the portfolio of a Cabinet minister.

It is pertinent to mention that there are 90 Assembly seats in Haryana and of these, the BJP won 40 seats requiring six more legislators to form the government. This resulted in formulation of the BJP-JJP regime. The JJP, which is an alliance partner of the BJP in Haryana, emerged winner in 10 Assembly seats, but the party continued to witness feud as many of the legislatures were denied berth in the Cabinet. Rebel MLAs came out against the party leadership openly several times, weakening the party’s position in the state. It gave an upper hand to the BJP, but the ongoing scenario provided an opportunity to the JJP after the khaps gave an ultimatum to independent MLAs to withdraw their support from the ruling faction. The BJP is aware that continuous withdrawal of support by independent legislators would lead to the situation worsening.

Apart from the above, it is worth mentioning that contrary to the party’s stand, JJP legislator Jogi Ram Sihag has opposed all the three agriculture laws. He even rejected the chair of chairman offered him before recent Assembly session.

Another of the party’s MLA from Shahabad, Ramkaran Kala, also had come out in support of the farmers earlier, but he refused to say anything regarding the matter after he was appointed chairman. Former MLA and BJP leader Parminder Singh Dhull also resigned from the party against the new agriculture laws. In the wake of the ongoing scenario, all eyes are on the five independent legislators’ decision following the khaps’ ultimatum. On the other hand, commoners across the state are putting their best to support the agrarian community.