Dushyant Chautala, Former BJP Ally, Faces Party Split After Seeking Haryana Power Test

Four MLAs of the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) attended a half-hour meeting with former BJP Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. The meeting took place at the residence of Minister of State Mahipal Dhanda in Panipat. The leaders discussed the current political crisis, although Minister Dhanda declined to comment on the matter. In response to the crisis, JJP leader Mr. Chautala issued showcause notices to three MLAs and met with the former BJP Chief Minister.

Meanwhile, Mr. Khattar expressed confidence in the BJP’s relationships with MLAs of both Congress and JJP. He also highlighted the process and requirements for a potential floor test, emphasizing the role of the Governor and Assembly Speaker in making decisions. The crisis in the Haryana BJP-led government arose when three Independent MLAs withdrew their support, leading to discussions about the government’s status and potential alliances. However, a technicality regarding the assembly’s no-confidence motion process has limited the options for the Opposition, with discussions surrounding the possibility of a special session or President’s Rule.

Given the nearing assembly elections and the current composition of the Haryana Assembly, which has 88 members out of 90 seats, the political maneuvering to overturn the Saini government may largely be symbolic. In response to the unfolding situation, the Chief Minister urged the Congress to focus on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, highlighting the recent trust vote won by the government.