As the voting for the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections concluded on October 5, all eyes are now focused on the exit poll results. The elections, held for 90 assembly seats, saw fierce competition between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a resurgent Congress, while Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also aimed to make inroads in the state’s political landscape.

The exit polls for the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections suggest a potential shift in power, with the Congress projected to secure a clear majority. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has been in power for two consecutive terms, faces a tough challenge. Despite Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar’s confidence in securing 50 seats, poll predictions indicate that the Congress may halt BJP’s momentum. The key opposition players include AAP, and a notable alliance between INLD and BSP. Vote counting is scheduled for October 8, 2024.

According to preliminary exit poll reports, the contest is predicted to be closer than expected, with the BJP facing significant anti-incumbency sentiment after two consecutive terms in power. The Congress, under the leadership of Bhupinder Singh Hooda, is expected to make gains, possibly reducing the BJP’s dominance. Meanwhile, AAP’s campaign, led by Arvind Kejriwal, aimed at capturing the attention of the state’s youth and farmers, may also have an impact, although it remains to be seen whether they will convert their popularity into a substantial number of seats.

Polling data shows a moderate voter turnout, with the highest participation in districts like Yamunanagar and Mewat, while urban areas like Panchkula and Gurgaon saw lower numbers. Key political figures, including Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Olympian Manu Bhaker, were among the early voters, with Khattar confidently predicting a BJP victory with over 50 seats. Congress leaders, however, mocked the BJP’s optimism, with Deepender Hooda reminding voters that the BJP’s seat count in the last election fell far short of their target.

The exit poll results will serve as a preview to the actual vote counting on October 8, and the political future of Haryana remains uncertain, with all major parties vying for control in what could be a pivotal election for the state.