Nayab Singh Saini was sworn in as Chief Minister of Haryana for the second time on Thursday, as the BJP secured a historic third consecutive term in the state. Saini, a leader from the Other Backward Classes (OBC), had first assumed office in March this year, replacing long-time CM Manohar Lal Khattar. The BJP overcame anti-incumbency by winning 48 seats in the 90-member assembly, securing a clear majority.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Parade Ground in Panchkula, was attended by prominent political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several NDA Chief Ministers. Around 50,000 people gathered to witness the event.
Saini, 54, expressed gratitude to the public and reiterated his open-door policy for addressing their concerns. “My doors are always open for the common man,” he said after offering prayers at the Valmiki Temple in Panchkula. The Chief Minister and his wife, Suman Saini, participated in religious ceremonies at the Valmiki Temple, Gurdwara Shri Nada Sahib, and Mansa Devi Temple ahead of the oath-taking event.
Saini, a trusted ally of Khattar, took charge in March to counter anti-incumbency sentiments. Despite holding office for just 56 days before the elections, Saini claimed to have achieved more development in that period than Congress leader Bhupinder Hooda did in his 10-year tenure as Chief Minister. He has built a reputation for being accessible to the public, earning the slogan, “Saini mera banda hai” (Saini is my man).
During the election campaign, Prime Minister Modi praised Saini’s rise from a backward class community and his simple, humble nature, which resonated with the people. Saini, who was first elected as an MLA in 2014, has seen a rapid rise in his political career, including winning the Kurukshetra Lok Sabha seat in 2019 by a large margin.
The BJP’s victory marks a major achievement, with Congress securing 37 seats, the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) winning two, and three Independents offering support to the new government. Saini’s return to power signals continuity in leadership as the BJP aims to strengthen its presence in Haryana.
With eight of his previous Cabinet members losing their seats, only Mahipal Dhanda and Mool Chand Sharma were re-elected. Saini’s focus now turns to working closely with the central government to accelerate Haryana’s development.
