Battle for Badshahpur: Cabinet berth guaranteed for winner

As the largest Assembly segment in Haryana prepares to vote, celebrations have already begun in Badshahpur. No matter who wins, the constituency is poised to gain a Cabinet berth. The contest has intensified between Congress youth leader Vardhan Yadav and BJP veteran Rao Narbir Singh, with both parties promising significant positions for the contenders.

During a public rally recently, Home Minister Amit Shah assured supporters that Rao Narbir would be elevated to an important position within the government. “We have given Rao Narbir a ticket because he is a hardworking man. Though we denied him a ticket in 2019, he remained loyal and worked tirelessly for five years. He will be rewarded,” Shah said.

Similarly, Congress leader and Rohtak MP Deepender Hooda, who was instrumental in securing Vardhan Yadav’s ticket, has promised a major role for Yadav. Drawing a comparison to the influence of Dushyant Chautala in the Khattar government, Deepender said, “Vardhan is my double engine. I promise you that if you send him to Chandigarh, he will not return empty-handed. He will be as influential as Dushyant. Give us your votes, we will fulfil all your demands.”

Both candidates are receiving strong backing from their respective parties, with Congress expected to offer four Cabinet posts, one likely to go to a Yadav candidate. This has fuelled speculation that Yadav could be in the running for a Deputy Chief Minister position.

In an exclusive interview with The Tribune, Rao Narbir clarified that he was not vying for the Chief Minister or Deputy Chief Minister roles, but was willing to serve in any capacity that would allow him to utilise his experience. Vardhan Yadav echoed a similar sentiment, stating that a Cabinet berth would enable him to better serve the people.