Chandigarh, Feb 3 (PTI) – Haryana Cabinet Minister Anil Vij has reignited a political storm by sharing pictures suggesting a connection between individuals associated with Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and an independent candidate he defeated in the last assembly elections.
Vij, who serves as Haryana’s Energy and Transport Minister, posted images on social media showing "workers" linked to Ashish Tayal—a self-proclaimed close friend of CM Saini—also appearing alongside independent candidate Chitra Sarwara. Vij triumphed over Sarwara in the Ambala Cantt assembly seat in October, securing his position as MLA for the seventh time.
"Ashish Tayal, who calls himself a friend of Nayab Saini, has numerous pictures with the CM on Facebook. The same workers seen with Tayal during the elections are also seen with BJP’s rival candidate Chitra Sarwara. ‘Yeh rishta kya kehlata hai?’ (What is this relationship called?) Tayal remains a close friend of Nayab Saini, so the question arises—who made him oppose the BJP candidate?" Vij wrote in a post on X, accompanied by the photographs.
Vij Alleges Election Conspiracy
This development follows Vij’s earlier claim on January 31 that there was a deliberate attempt to ensure his defeat in the Ambala Cantt elections. Despite raising the issue publicly, he alleged that no action had been taken against those responsible."I am the senior-most leader, and I am saying that efforts were made to defeat me. Action should have been taken immediately, but even after 100 days, nothing has been done," Vij asserted.
Sharp Jibe at CM Saini
Vij did not hold back from criticizing CM Nayab Saini, taking a dig at his leadership style."This is a very serious matter. And it remains so because our Chief Minister does not come down from the ‘udan khatola’ (chopper). Since assuming office, he has been flying around. If he steps down, he will see the struggles of the people. This is not just my voice but that of all MLAs and ministers," Vij remarked.
‘My Seniority Cannot Be Taken Away’
Speaking to reporters in Rohtak on Sunday, Vij asserted his political standing."Everything can be taken away from me, but my seniority cannot be snatched. I am a seven-time MLA," he declared.
Fast-Unto-Death for Ambala?
On January 30, Vij made headlines again by announcing his willingness to go on a fast-unto-death for the people of Ambala, akin to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal.When questioned about Vij’s allegations, CM Saini responded briefly, saying, "Anil Vij is our leader."
Tensions with BJP Leadership
Vij has had a history of discord with former Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar. In 2014, when the BJP formed its first government in Haryana, Vij was considered a strong contender for the Chief Minister’s post. However, the party chose Khattar, a first-time MLA, instead.In March 2024, Vij voiced his dissatisfaction with the BJP’s decision to replace Khattar with Saini without consulting him.
As Haryana’s political landscape remains tense, the rift within the BJP continues to unfold, with Vij’s accusations adding another layer of intrigue to the state's governance.
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