Anil Vij, a six-time BJP legislator from Ambala Cantonment, has declared his intention to claim the Haryana Chief Minister’s post if the BJP wins the upcoming election. Speaking on Sunday, Vij emphasized that, based on his seniority, he expects to be considered for the top role.
Vij, who has served as an MLA since 1990, highlighted his long tenure and seniority within the BJP. He noted, “I have never asked for anything, but if appointed Chief Minister, I would transform Haryana.”
In the 2019 Assembly elections, Vij defeated Independent candidate Chitra Sarwara by 20,165 votes. Previously, in 2014, he won against Congress leader Nirmal Singh by 15,462 votes. He pointed out that his constituency chose him, a man without a political background, six times.
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Party leaders privately acknowledge Vij’s critical role in strengthening the BJP at the grassroots level. Despite his contributions, Vij’s previous claims for the Chief Minister’s position were overlooked. His dissatisfaction grew when Nayab Singh Saini replaced Manohar Lal Khattar as Chief Minister in March.
Vij’s statement comes after Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh, a former Congress member, projected himself as a potential Chief Ministerial candidate. Singh also supported veteran BJP leader Rambilas Sharma, who was denied an assembly ticket.
The BJP has announced it will contest the elections alone under Saini’s leadership, signaling him as the party’s chief ministerial candidate. Voting for Haryana’s 90 Assembly seats will take place on October 5, with ballot counting scheduled for October 8.