Race hots up in Sirsa as key candidates file papers
With the BJP, Congress and AAP having announced their candidates for the Sirsa Assembly seat, the main contenders in the fray are now clear.
Gopal Kanda of the Haryana Lokhit Party (HLP) was confirmed as a candidate two weeks ago. The key battle will be between Kanda of the HLP, Gokul Setia of the Congress and Rohtash Jangra of the BJP.
Meanwhile, in a notable development, the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) has pledged its support to Kanda, boosting his campaign.
On the final day of the nominations, Kanda led a vibrant roadshow through Sirsa, promising to establish a medical college, create jobs through new industries and launch a water storm project. His procession, which began at Sri Tarkeshwar Dham, passed through major localities like Shaheed Bhagat Singh Chowk and ended at the nomination office. Kanda also visited Taarababa Kutia and addressed his supporters at the place.
Congress candidate Gokul Setia also held a roadshow, starting from Rania Chungi and covering various key areas before filing his nomination at the mini-secretariat. He was joined by Punjab Congress President Raja Warring, Rahul Setia, and Sunita Setia, and emphasised securing fair benefits for Sirsa.
BJP’s Rohtash Jangra and AAP’s Sham Mehta filed their nominations as well, leading their supporters in similar processions. Despite heavy police presence, traffic jams were reported due to the large turnout.
In the Ellenabad constituency, INLD’s Abhay Singh, Congress’ Bharat Singh Beniwal, BJP’s Amirchand Mehta and JJP’s Anjani Ladha all filed their nominations, setting up a competitive race.
In Rania, Independent Ranjit Singh Chautala and Congress candidate Sarvmitra Kamboj also filed their nominations. The influence of former Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda remains strong in Congress’ campaigns, overshadowing MP Kumari Selja’s efforts in the region.
