Chandigarh

To connect with grassroots voters and gauge public sentiment, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini took an unconventional approach on Wednesday: he rode a bullock cart to a public meeting in Jind district. Saini shared a video of the experience on X, stating, The son of a poor farmer knows how to run the government as well as drive a bullock cart.

Accompanied by state BJP President Mohan Lal Badoli and flanked by security, Saini held the reins and rode with two local women. A senior BJP leader noted that the Chief Minister’s goal was to better understand common people’s issues, discussing government programs and policies with his fellow passengers.

As the campaign heats up ahead of the October 1 legislative elections, Saini is traveling across Haryana, highlighting the BJP government’s efforts to support farmers, Dalits, and the poor. He has countered Congress’ “Haryana Maange Hisab” campaign by accusing them of spreading falsehoods.

Political tensions are rising with the Assembly elections approaching and results due on October 4. While the BJP, led by Saini, aims for a third consecutive term, it faces challenges from Congress, which is backed by farmers and government employees, and the AAP, which is criticizing the BJP on issues like unemployment and law and order.