The BJP has never secured a victory in Haryana’s Kharkhauda Assembly seat since its creation in 2009 after delimitation. This SC-reserved constituency in Sonipat district, which borders Delhi, has consistently been won by Congress. In an effort to shift this trend, the incumbent BJP has nominated former chairperson of the Haryana Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation, Pawan Kharkhoda, for the upcoming elections.

Kharkhoda first contested the seat as an Independent in the 2014 elections but was unsuccessful. He also lost in 2019 while representing the Jannayak Janata Party (JJP).

In an interview with The Indian Express, Kharkhoda discusses his expectations for the October 5 polls, the Agniveer scheme, the wrestlers’ protest, and other pertinent issues.

Excerpts:

The BJP has consistently lost the Kharkhauda seat. What gives you hope for a different outcome this time?
There is a significant wave of change in Kharkhauda. The lead-up to the elections has been promising, with support from people across the “chhattis biradris (36 communities)” in all 58 villages and urban areas, as well as from local intellectuals. Independents are also backing me.

Additionally, there is anti-incumbency sentiment against the Congress MLA, Jaiveer Singh. The electorate views this election as a battle of Kharkhoda against Singh, and it’s an insider versus outsider contest. People believe their issues will only be addressed if Singh is defeated.

During the recent Lok Sabha elections, the Opposition raised concerns regarding reservations and the Constitution, which may have swayed Dalit votes toward the INDIA bloc. How are you approaching SC voters now?
For us in the BJP, the Constitution is a “pavitra granth (holy scripture)” that holds more significance than the Gita. We will never allow it to be altered. In contrast, the Congress has undermined the Constitution and imposed the Emergency in 1975, altering it numerous times due to their anti-Constitution mindset.

The BJP-led state government has made promises for Agniveers. Is this addressing the frustrations of youths aspiring to join the Army?
People recognize that the BJP is the only party focused on the nation’s welfare, while the Opposition seeks to gain political mileage by creating divisions based on caste and religion. The BJP aims to unite everyone.

The wrestlers’ protest against former BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been a significant issue in Haryana since last year. Has this affected the BJP’s prospects in the upcoming elections?
Wrestlers and athletes bring pride to our country and represent the Tricolor with honor. Any issue arising from one individual (Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh) is inconsequential. Often, these situations become ideological battles. The Congress politicized the wrestlers’ protest, but the BJP has always supported them and has never treated them unjustly.

Has anti-incumbency declined for the BJP after the recent change from Manohar Lal Khattar to Nayab Singh Saini as CM?
The BJP is unique in providing opportunities for every worker, allowing anyone, regardless of caste or religion, to reach high positions. In contrast, the Congress tends to renominate MLAs for life. All BJP CMs have performed well, and the change was a routine decision. Both Manohar Lal Khattar and Saini have made positive contributions. The BJP is committed to Haryana’s growth and progress.