What went wrong for Congress Haryana election?

Haryana Assembly Elections have been won by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), while Congress missed an opportunity to create an opposition coalition and undermine Narendra Modi as Prime Minister.

What was behind Congress' shocking loss when pollsters predicted an upswing?

OVERSELLING BRAND HOODA

At the party, the Hooda factor was overstated, with Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Deepender Singh Hooda seemingly running the show - their senior and junior counterparts taking almost 72 of 90 Assembly Seats between them; Kumari Selja won nine, with Randeep Surjewala accounting for two. This sent a strong signal that Jat Chief Ministership would return if Congress took power - a message clearly communicated on walls around the room.

The BJP took swift advantage of "Bapa-Bete Ki Party's" provocations to increase their vote totals and gain power.

The Congress should have taken greater precautions to avoid Jat versus non Jat debates becoming widespread, in an environment in which overselling of Jat factors has proved counterproductive to them in many states.

State unit was so divided by factionalism that even during an extended Congress Working Committee meeting (CWC), a verbal clash ensued between Kumari Selja, who complained she wasn't being included in programmes, and Deepak Babaria, state in-charge who supported Hooda group.

Rahul Gandhi quickly interjected, asserting that this wasn't the appropriate venue and they should work towards solving state issues independently.

As Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal refused to be drawn into the dispute and instructed his members to settle it among themselves, tensions continued to flare.

As soon as Hooda camp and Randeep Surjewala began to engage in open battle, tensions within Congress lieutenants quickly increased. Never could there be one unifying voice during election yatras or press conferences held by congress lieutenants.

DALIT AGGONISATION

An anti-Dalit comment made by Selja Kumari, a Dalit veteran leader and party veteran within BJP and an election veteran was the catalyst that propelled caste consolidation against Congress. A video featuring Congress members abusing Selja went viral while BJP leaders worked hard to highlight his humiliation within his Grand Old Party.

The Congress was optimistic that welcoming Dalits back would improve their prospects in the Assembly; however, nothing was done to quell any disagreement or resolve tension.

Selja did not contact any member of her party leadership for almost 12 days and preferred staying home rather than meeting with anyone outside her household. This sent shockwaves through both parties.

Dalit community was outraged that Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, both from Jat communities like their own, did nothing to stop the insults being directed against Dalits.

By the time Bhupinder Hooda and Kumari appeared alongside Rahul in Asandh, it was too late for repair. Dalits were already aware of Hooda & Kumari's message while having other options available through Bahujan Samaj Party/Azad Saaj Party alliances.

Ashok Tanwar's late return, though disappointing to those already committed, did not ease community tensions. Tanwar was brought in at the last minute in order to disparage Kumari Selja who had switched parties multiple times; people in Haryana knew about this fact and made fun of Tanwar for joining his party; one villager sent Tanwar a message mockingly making fun of Tanwar as joining it: he said in it, a villager made fun of Tanwar by writing: 'Ghar ka Jog na. Bahaar Ka Jog na. bahaar Ka Jog.

All Eggs In One Basket

The party relied too heavily on its internal survey. Instead of seeking alternative data sources or inputs from the ground to check its accuracy, Sunil Kanugolu, their poll pundit had performed far beyond expectations in Karnataka & Haryana and so the party decided to put all its eggs in his basket.

Not happy with their ticket allocation, a Congress leader cited Sunil Kanugolu's survey as the source for ticket allocation. Unfortunately, party leadership are often unaware that ground inputs differ. Unfortunately, that same survey is sent around different power centers like Hooda's camp and top party officials who receive it all for consideration when ticket allocation occurs.

Evidently, other voices such as Kumari Selja and Randeep Surjewala weren't part of either the Central Election Committee (CEC) or Screening Committee - so only Hooda's campaign could make their case heard.

As soon as tensions heightened, a subcommittee composed of more than 20 members was formed to address them.

Randeep Surjewala and Kumari Selja, as well as Captain Ajay Yaddav, red-flagged a number of candidates during subcommittee meetings - much too late - with little that could be done to stop it; further alienating state leaders who remained within their own homes.

Bet on the Wrong Horse

According to internal surveys of the party, Congress was projected to receive a score of around 60+ on its exam. Unfortunately, due to complacency from this projection, more than 12 seats were lost as they bet on an unwise horse.

There have been reports that the Congress lost seats due to the influence of Delhi Darbar. Some seats were lost by large margins and some candidates from this party placed third or fourth in these contests.

Some seats were won by close allies or former officeholders, including Balalabragrh where Parag Sharma was defeated by only 5,92 percent of votes, Bhawani Khera where Pradeep Narwal was outwitted by 21,7779, Gharaunda-Gharaunda-Gharaunda-Gharaunda - Badshahpur-Badshahpur, Tigaon Tigaon Tigaon

Numerous stakeholders campaigned hard for MLAs who were facing corruption charges to be given tickets. Rahul Gandhi put these MLAs' applications on hold, citing how doing so might compromise his party's image as an anti-corruption crusader; all three ended up running and losing.

Naranaul gave those with large surnames, such as family and close friends, preference in order to favor dynastic lines. Rao Narendra Singh, son of former minister Rao Bansi Singh and Rao Narendra Singh was given a ticket by Naranaul despite multiple losses at assembly elections; Bansilal's son-in-law who was also former chief minister got one too despite suffering multiple setbacks; Somveer's seat has also been relocated away from Loharu

Rebels and Small Political Parties Were Unable to Rein in

Assembly elections have become more localized and are being decided upon based on personal preferences and neighborhood allegiance, rather than any national agenda.

INLD and JJP had an alliance with Chandrashekhar Azad's party as well as Chandrashekhar's INLD; thus offering voters looking for alternatives to vote against BJP a wider selection of options.

As part of their opposition INDIA Alliance, Congress gave one seat to the Left while carving out their own territory within the state, giving other players an opportunity to take risks.

Even Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had sought an alliance with Congress, hoping it would mark a fresh beginning after their disastrous performance during the 2024 Lok sabha election campaign in Delhi.

Rahul's request that party leaders show kindness towards AAP was unsuccessful; no progress was made during talks between both parties.

Congress criticised AAP leaders for being overambitious. A senior AAP leader admitted this fact when speaking with India Today TV: "We wanted to run on five seats but cannot accept all other commitments".

One senior leader familiar with these discussions stated that Congress party state unit was emphatic about not wanting AAP; their workers could become disillusioned from alliance membership.

Smaller players were successful at siphoning off anti-incumbency votes and derail the Congress party's attack in many seats.

Congress was further beleaguered by rebellious members, which made matters even worse. Congress could neither control nor persuade these disgruntled candidates to withdraw, which cost Congress almost 12 seats in elections.

Anil Vij, a BJP leader in Ambala Cantt was unperturbed during the day of counting even though he was trailing. He believed the opposition votes would be divided among Congress rebel Chitra Sarwara & Parvinder Singh Pari; their combined votes exceeded Anil vij's, who ultimately earned only 59 858.

Congress has chosen to ignore a critical factor. Haryana elections are notoriously close; nearly 50% of seats had narrow victory margins during recent elections.

Brijendra Chowdhary of the Congress lost to Chatar Bhuj attri of the BJP by only 32 votes in Uchana Kalan.

Congress' mistakes in campaign management are compounded by their slim victory margin.

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7th Pay Commission: DA increase announcement today? All eyes on Union Cabinet Meeting

After its cabinet meeting on Wednesday, the Centre could announce an increase in dearness allowances (DA) and Dearness Reliefs (DR) for central Government employees and pensioners.

Over one crore beneficiaries will track the likely decision, as they look for relief from rising costs ahead of Diwali.

Confederation of Central Government Employees and Workers sent a letter recently to Nirmala Sitharaman expressing concern over the delay of the DA/DR announcement. The dearness allowance is reviewed to counteract the inflation impact twice a year, usually in January and July, though official announcements are often delayed. Currently the dearness allowance is 50%. The upcoming adjustment will raise it to 53% effective July 1, 2024.

The announcement could result in a 3% rise in the DA. The new policy would take effect in October and include arrears from the three previous months (July to September).

The pattern is similar to last year, when the hike was announced at the beginning of October.

The next Cabinet meeting will see the DA increase. In a recent media report, a senior official of the Confederation of Central Government Employees & Workers said that they expect an increase of at minimum 3%.

The calculation of DA is closely tied to the All India Consumer Price Index, which tracks the retail price changes over the last 12 months. Any increase in DA will be reflected in an increase in DR. This provides financial support for retired employees. The decision is important for households across the country to manage their budgets, especially in light of global inflationary pressures.

This is a continuation of the 4% increase in March 2024 that raised the DA to 50%. The 7th Pay Commission guidelines also led to revisions of other allowances including the house rent allowance. The 7th Pay Commission was established almost a decade before and proposed automatic adjustments to basic pay when DA reaches 50%. This proposal was rejected, leading to unions planning to raise the demand with the 8th Pay Commission.

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Brij Bhushan: "Power of my name was what helped her"

Brij Bhushan Singh, a former BJP MP who won the Julana Assembly Seat during Haryana Assembly Elections on Tuesday, said that his name had "the power to help her sail".

Vinesh who recently joined the Congress won the Julana Assembly Seat by securing 65,080 ballots, beating her rival, BJP Yogesh Kumar's, by 6,105 voters.

If she wins using my name, then I'm a great guy. "At least, my name will help her to sail through", Singh said while speaking at an event in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh.

"Vinesh Phogat will be destroyed wherever she goes. This will continue to happen into the future." Congress may have won by itself, but she is doomed", said the former Wrestling Federation of India chief. He added that "these wrestlers were not heroes for Haryana but villains".

Referring to the Haryana elections, where the BJP secured a clear majority of 48 seats while the Congress only managed 37, the former BJP MP also claimed that Rahul Gandhi's efforts were ineffective.

He said, "Congress should now accept that the citizens of the country rejected them".

Singh, in response to the National Conference/Congress combination's victory in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections said that "the mood and atmosphere (of the political) weather" there was different. The mandate (of the BJP) is acceptable.

The INDIA alliance of NC and Congress won 48 of the 90 J&K Assembly Seats that were up for election, six of which went to the grand old party.

Last year, Vinesh Phogat led the protest of wrestlers against Brij Bhushan Singh.

Six wrestlers have made allegations of sexual harassment against Singh. In May 2023, after the Supreme Court intervened, the Delhi Police filed a FIR against Singh based on the complaints of six wrestlers.

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Praful Patel: Mahayuti to release first list of candidates on Dussehra, Ajit Pawar from Baramati.

Praful Patel, working president of Nationalist Congress Party NCP announced on Tuesday that Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar would contest in Baramati Assembly Constituency. Patel made this announcement amid speculation that Ajit Pawar might select Shirur or another safer seat following Supriya Sule's victory at Lok Sabha polls over Sunetra Pawar as his wife.

Patel responded to media reports by clarifying, stating: "Let me be clear: Ajit Pawar will only contest from Baramati. Since 1991, Ajit Pawar won seven times from its assembly constituencies."

Patel also noted that the Mahayuti alliance will reveal their initial list of 235 candidate names on Dussehra - coincident with Maha Vikas Aghadi.

Moneycontrol reported, citing credible sources, that the BJP will likely contest 150-155 constituencies while Chief Minister Eknath Shiv Sena-led Shiv Sena is projected to contest 75-80 seats and NCP 60-65 seats respectively. Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Mumbai recently and promised those involved in his party/alliance that certain seats will be competitive races.

Patel commented on the formula for seat sharing: "We asked for a reasonable formula; in this way, we will get 60-65 seats. This agreement is satisfactory. After extensive seat sharing discussions between Mahayuti Partners and Mahayuti constituents, they eventually reached an accord on 288 out of 288 total assembly seats."

Patel reiterated the absence of disagreement among Mahayuti allies. According to Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra Deputy CM, scenes similar to those seen in Haryana will play out again in Maharashtra.

Fadnavis stated that people in Maharashtra had rejected the false narrative being promoted by opposition parties on various issues.

"For the first time in 60 years, Haryana will witness a third term for any political party in power. While opposition parties attempted to leverage Agnipath and Olympic athletes as leverage points for caste politics campaigns against Prime Minister NarendraModi's vision for Haryana's development", said Modi in response.

He stated that people have seen through Rahul's political drama and will no longer be fooled by it.

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Haryana Congress fights in the open after losing, Kumari Selja targets Hoodas

 She said that the national leadership of the party must devise a strategy to revitalise the party in the state and identify those accountable for its strong>underperformance/strong> during the Haryana Assembly elections. She said that the national leadership of the party needs to develop a strategy for revitalising the party in Haryana and identify those responsible for its poor performance in the Haryana Assembly election.

Selja stressed the significance of identifying individuals who undermine efforts made by her party to gain back power in the state.

"Despite their disappointment in Congress workers' losses, I am confident that their high command will assess why this defeat occurred. Shelja, a reporter, suggested that this high command create a plan to revive party in Haryana."

"I am certain that the Congress high command will identify those who have undermined efforts of bringing back power for Haryana after 10 years", she asserted.

BJP will likely form the government again as they hold 48 of 90 assembly seats; Congress, which had been hoping to return after 10 years, could only secure 37.

Selja, former Union Minister and Congress Lok Sabha Member stated, "I am confident that the party will examine all factors which have led to these results in Haryana. She noted that organization is greatly impacted by various elements, such as getting everyone onboard together with one voice and ensuring coordination between leaders."

Haryana Congress had long been a fractured organization before Assembly elections were even scheduled. Selja had frequently voiced her dissatisfaction with Hooda's leadership.

Bhupinder Hooda, former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition in Punjab was accused of trying to control the state-level unit of Congress. Selja indicated this by noting "there are many people" wanting to go it alone: when someone refuses to cooperate I cannot say anything further.

Selja strongly objected to Bhupinder Hooda's attempts at nominating himself as their party's Chief Minister. According to Selja, whenever there is a government under any party banner, its Chief minister usually leads election campaign. Selja noted that their party has never projected anyone who opposes their efforts as Chief Minister.

Congress was widely expected to make a comeback following their success in five out of ten Lok Sabha constituencies and an increase in vote share from 28.42 percent to 43.67 percent at the recent elections, yet their inability to present a united face and resolve internal strife prevented this from becoming reality in state assembly elections.

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Ayushman Card vs Abha Health ID card: What's the difference?

Ayushman Bharat, established by the National Democratic Alliance as part of their implementation of National Health Policy 2017, seeks to achieve Universal Health Coverage. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs), its principles ensure no one is left behind and eligibility criteria were recently expanded for Ayushman Bharati Pradhan Mantrijan Arogya Yojana after NDA took office again.

Initialy, this scheme provided income-based insurance of up to Rs 5 lakh per year for qualifying families - representing 40% of the population who were economically poorest regardless of age.

With recent Cabinet approval of an expansion scheme for individuals 70 years or older to receive Rs 5 lakh annual coverage for their families, according to a government statement, this change is projected to benefit 6 crore people who belong to 4.5 crore families in this age range.

Ayushman Cards Vs Abha Health ID Cards

In 2018, the Center unveiled Ayushman Bharat Card (also referred to as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana or PM-JAY). Holders can use this health card to access affordable healthcare at their own convenience and the Ayushman Card offers financial security against their medical costs.

Ayushman Health Card gives users access to healthcare services worth Rs 5,000,000 annually at both public and private hospitals across India, covering preexisting medical conditions as well.

As part of Ayushman-Bharat's expanded program for seniors aged 70 years or above, eligible recipients will receive a PM-JAY Card.

Top Features;// Long Term Care Coverage// Annual protection up to Rs 5 Lakh per family annually.

All providers hold pre-licensing for secondary and tertiary procedures regardless of co-morbid conditions.

All hospitals in India provide cashless treatments. Both public and private hospitals offer this option for patients.

Receiving an ABHA card opens up membership in Ayushman Bharat Yojana to individuals without restrictions or membership requirements.

Ayushman Yojana: Receive free benefits

Now all public and private hospitals in India can provide national portability.

The SECC database does not compel families to register.

Coverage includes up to 15 days post-hospitalisation costs and 3 days' worth of pre-hospitalisation expenses.

Abha Health ID Cards In 2021, the Centre introduced the Abha Health ID Cards with unique digital identification numbers that cover every individual's complete medical information and create an comprehensive digital health record of each Indian citizen.

The ABHA Card is an online health account that enables individuals to manage all of their healthcare needs and treatments online. Furthermore, this health card encourages providers to be diligent with your wellbeing.

The ABHA Number is a 14-digit identification that identifies you as part of India's digital health network. Healthcare providers across India trust and recognize this secure identifier; register for Personal Health Records apps like ABDM ABHA so you can share health data easily.

All citizens will receive a unique Digital Health ID and Health Dossier Number that enables them to create their digital health record.

This ID will be issued to every Indian citizen to enhance efficiency and accountability within healthcare delivery systems.

Everyone in your family will have access to this digital ID, which healthcare providers will use as evidence-based treatments.

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Horoscope today, 6th October: Astrological predictions of negative outcomes for the stock market, career, finances, and business.

 

Aries

Ganesha advises to maintain a positive outlook because the stars will be in your favor. To handle your financial planning, you will need to give more attention to the subjects that interest you. To manage your investments, you will need to understand your investment strategy. You might have the chance to invest in real estate. The workplace will remain normal. Beware of your opponents. Maintain order. The circumstances may be difficult. Patience, understanding and patience will help you. Be careful and vigilant. The results of your career and business efforts will be average. In business and industry, you should not rush. Proposals are likely to be supported. Meetings and conversations should be more careful. Your health may be affected. Keep your promises. You will retain your enthusiasm. Motivate yourself. Avoid stubbornness.

Taurus

Ganesha states that occupations related with international trade and markets will be highlighted today, and offer attractive opportunities for professionals in these areas. Use this time to your advantage and expand your business as much as you can. The money will be stuck in your business. Lotteries can be a good source of income. You can benefit from investing money in the stock exchange. Your actions will be clear. You should proceed with sensitivity and understanding. It is possible to get unexpected results. Pay attention to the immediate. Take advice from family members. Use politeness in your speech and conduct. Avoid being excited. Avoid getting excited. Avoid being provoked. Communication should be clear. You will feel better. Harmony will increase.

Gemini

Ganesha warns you to be aware of your financial status today because expenses may have increased. Take care to make the best decisions for your future financial growth and manage your money. You may also be cheated on money matters. Lottery, betting, stocks, and commodities can lead to financial losses. Partnership will be solid. Success will come to close associates. Team spirit will be maintained. The work and activity will grow. Stability efforts will progress. Purity and harmony are important. You will maintain a healthy diet and personality. You will be motivated to work. You will become more adaptable. You will be able to maintain a high level of morale and remain active.

Cancer

Ganesha warns that if you don't control your spending, you could end up ruining your finances. You should set a budget and stick to it. Finance is expected to benefit those who are in industries that deal with parties in foreign countries or distant locations. The emphasis will always be on the material resources. Work will progress more quickly. Listen to the senior and responsible people. Respect the rules. Utilize your experience. Your talent will improve as you refine it. Don't lose patience. Don't be hurried. Keep a positive attitude. Avoid arguments and disputes. Motivation comes from personal achievements. Keep getting regular health checkups. Communicate concisely. Motivate your team.

Leo

Ganesha predicts that the financial situation is going to be favorable. There will be new income sources. This will boost your income. Currently, the outlook for foreign companies is positive. There will be an increase in foreign orders, but you may also gain some new clients. Modern subjects will attract interest. You will be able to improve your routine. You will receive support from your colleagues. The administrative and management areas will be boosted. The pace of things will increase. A strong drive to progress quickly will prevail. You will be able to showcase your diverse talents and skills. Your abilities will be showcased to the best of your ability. There will be a competitive spirit. Morale and health will be high.

Virgo

Ganesha tells us that we can find extra sources of income. You may learn today that your company is planning to send you overseas to work. Profit from this opportunity. You will not need to worry about the outcome of your trip. The participation in important tasks increases. Work will be more active. Positive business results are expected. Profit from favorable business conditions. Success rates will be high. The performance will improve across the board. Expected artistic performance will exceed expectations Keep your courage and valor. Your personality will impress. Listen to the elders. Continue to be active and courageous. The enthusiasm and morale of the team will improve. Be involved in important conversations. The work will progress quickly. The health will be excellent.

Libra

Ganesha predicts that today, there will be a decrease in income and an increase in expenditures for the business. Financially, the business's condition will be somewhat weak. Fights can break out in families over money and property. Spending more money to provide comfort and facilities for children is a good idea. You will be more proactive and make the most of your relationships. Travel is also possible and business expansion will come as expected. Don't leave things pending. You will keep your promises, and the discussions will be fruitful. Your career and business will be successful. You will increase your wealth by focusing on different endeavors. You will be influential, take good care of yourself, and manage your time effectively. Your morale and personality will be high.

Scorpio

Ganesha tells you that you must take care of the financial situation to avoid a shortage of money. Controlling your spending today will improve your financial position in the future. You can expand your business, or start a brand new industry. News from overseas is likely to prove profitable. Important people will make you attractive offers. You will have a successful business and be influential. You will perform to expectations and be part of professional discussions. Your arrangements will be improved and you will gain more respect. You will be more attentive to your food, motivated, focused, and high-spirited.

Sagittarius

Ganesha predicts that you may also have to pay more for your vehicle. Also, you may spend more on comfort and entertainment. Today is likely to bring you profits if you have a business which relies on or has contacts with foreign markets. You can use this time to work a few more hours in the office so that you can make the most out of any new developments. You will be able to excel at creative work and new activities will take off. You will be able to perform in all areas with intelligence and courage. Your reputation and respect will grow as you continue to move forward. You will be in harmony with others, improve your skills and efforts, and maintain a healthy diet. Your health will improve. You will become more sweet in your actions, your relationships will grow stronger, and you will have increased enthusiasm and morale.

Capricorn

Ganesha predicts that you will receive help to expand your business from special people. It is a great day to close financial deals. It is not the day to make big financial decisions. Investing slowly and steadily is a better option than quick-rich methods. You will reach important goals. You will succeed in business discussions. You will seize opportunities. You will take risks. You will become more intelligent. Career and business will be emphasized. You will hear good news. You will benefit from the experience. You will gain a greater sense of dignity. You will gain more courage, valor, and contacts. The performance of the work will improve. Confidence will be maintained. The health will improve. Morale will be high. You will continue to be influential.

Aquarius

Ganesha predicts that you will earn an extra income, and also succeed. You should be careful when you are making loan transactions. You may need to travel today if you work in the business world. This is a great opportunity. However, it may not turn out to be as successful as you had hoped. Harmony will prevail in many areas and business will continue to be auspicious. Your superiors will appreciate your logical approach. You will be more productive and have a strong competitive spirit. Clarity will prevail in many areas and your health will improve. You will have a good morale, maintain balance, and work with sensitivity.

Pisces

Ganesha predicts that you will have a great opportunity to gain financial success. You may learn today that a major business deal is finalized. You have to be at your best, whether it's personal or professional. If you own your business, it's important to know what products will sell in your existing business. You will gain more confidence in your ability to win. Your proposals will be supported. Creative work will receive more attention. The dedication to goals will grow. You will be more open to opportunities. You will become more efficient at work. Your momentum will increase. You will gain momentum. You will be able to share in the happiness of others. Your intelligence will grow. You will lead a luxurious life. Your personality will improve. You will stay active. Morale will be high. The health of the employees will improve.

 

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