Fresh faces, bold goals: New MLAs outline plans for development
Haryana’s first-time legislators in the 15th Haryana Vidhan Sabha aren’t newcomers when it comes to public service. Eager to address pressing issues, they outlined their ambitions after taking their oaths, each focused on setting their houses (read constituency) in order.
Phogat observes session from back bench
Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat spent much of the session on the last bench. Dressed in a blue and white "India" T-shirt, Phogat watched the proceedings quietly, often doodling, and was later joined by Naraingarh MLA Shelly Choudhry.
Speaking to The Tribune, BJP’s Nikhil Madan shared his goal of fast-tracking development in his constituency. “As the Sonepat mayor, I carried out several development works. Now, as a legislator, I want to ensure metro connectivity, relocate the bus stand, and address chronic water-logging issues,” Madan said.
Representing Kalka, former Ambala mayor and BJP MLA Shakti Rani Sharma, mother of Rajya Sabha MP Kartikeya Sharma and wife of former minister Venod Sharma, discussed the challenges her constituency faces, noting the lack of infrastructure. “The road network, especially in Morni, is practically non-existent in some villages, and we have issues with drinking water, poor telecom networks, and increasing drug abuse,” she said.
Arriving in traditional dhoti-kurta and green turban, INLD’s Arjun Chautala reflected on the responsibility he felt as he entered the Assembly as an MLA, remembering his early visits as a 13-year-old in the visitor’s gallery. “My father was a one-man Opposition. Now, as an MLA, I will work to represent the aspirations of the youth,” he said.
The youngest MLA at 25, Kaithal's Aditya Surjewala (Congress), called for a special session to address farmers’ issues. “My priority is to push for timely paddy procurement and lifting, so farmers can also celebrate Diwali. The shortage of DAP fertiliser needs immediate redressal,” he asserted.
Congress MLA Gokul Setia of Sirsa voiced concerns over the lack of healthcare and canal water access, saying, “We need a well-equipped hospital and proper canal water supply. We have fallen behind other districts and must make up ground.”
Independent MLA Devinder Kadyan from Ganaur, who is backing the BJP government, described the experience as overwhelming. “The leaders we used to watch on TV are now our colleagues. We are here to work for the people,” Kadyan added.
Family members of various MLAs watched the proceedings, including Speaker Harvinder Kalyan’s wife and daughter, who looked on as Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini proposed his name. MP Varun Chaudhry, husband of MLA Pooja, and former MLA Anand Singh Dangi, father of first-time MLA Balram Dangi, were also present.
Decorated with marigolds, chrysanthemums, carnations, and orchids, the Assembly venue took on a festive atmosphere. Camaraderie marked the ceremony as younger MLAs touched the feet of senior members, and long-standing colleagues greeted each other warmly.
