The election results in Haryana delivered a major surprise on October 8, as exit poll predictions fell flat. The BJP successfully secured a third consecutive term, leaving the Congress party, which was expected to perform well according to many polls, regretting missed opportunities. In contrast, the results from Jammu and Kashmir largely aligned with expectations.
Several political figures experienced significant setbacks due to these results. Here’s a closer look at those who faced defeats:
Iltija Mufti: The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate and daughter of Mehbooba Mufti, Iltija Mufti, lost the Srigufwara-Bijbehara seat to Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri of the National Conference (NC). She conceded defeat after her opponent gained a substantial lead, ultimately losing by 9,770 votes.
Ravinder Raina: The BJP’s Jammu & Kashmir unit chief, Ravinder Raina, faced defeat in the Nowshera assembly constituency in Rajouri district. He lost to Surinder Kumar Choudhary of the National Conference by a margin of 7,819 votes.
Abhay Chautala: Abhay Chautala of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) suffered a significant defeat in the Ellenabad seat, losing to Congress candidate Bharat Singh Beniwal by 15,000 votes.
Dushyant Singh Chautala: The Janata Jananayak Party (JJP) leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Singh Chautala lost in the Uchana Kalan constituency, marking a decline in influence within the Jat-dominated area.
Congress Party: Congress emerged as one of the biggest losers in Haryana. Despite being favored by pollsters for a comfortable win, the party ended up a distant second to the BJP. Political analysts attribute this electoral failure to the party leadership's inability to manage internal conflicts, particularly between Bhupinder Hooda and Kumari Selja.
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