- By Vivek Raj
- Wed, 13 Mar 2024 09:10 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Anil Vij, a prominent BJP leader in Haryana, notably absented himself from the swearing-in ceremony of Nayab Singh Saini as the new Chief Minister, a position for which he was reportedly considered for induction into the cabinet. Earlier in the day, Vij had left the BJP legislature party meeting abruptly, where Saini was elected as the leader, hinting at his discontent within the party ranks.
Former Chief Minister M L Khattar revealed that Vij's name was listed for cabinet induction but he failed to attend. Khattar described Vij as a senior colleague who occasionally gets upset easily but returns to normalcy afterward. He mentioned past incidents of Vij's discontent but assured efforts to address his concerns.
Speaking to reporters, former chief minister Khattar, when asked whether Vij's name was there in the race for the post of deputy chief minister, said, "Ministers had to take oath today and his (Vij's) name was on that (list). But he could not come."
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"I spoke with him. He said he did not feel like coming (for the oath-taking event). We will speak to him. Nayab Saini ji will also speak to him," he added.
In a surprising development on Tuesday, Nayab Singh Saini assumed office as the new chief minister, succeeding BJP stalwart Khattar, just weeks before the Lok Sabha elections. Khattar's second term was set to conclude in October.
The development comes just weeks before the Lok Sabha elections, indicating possible internal rifts within the BJP's Haryana unit.
Anil Vij's discontent with party decisions is not something new. In the past, he has expressed displeasure over various matters, including interference in his department by officials from the Chief Minister's Office.
Vij's strained relationship with Khattar dates back to 2014 when he was overlooked for the chief minister's post in favor of Khattar, despite being considered a frontrunner.
Vij's absence from the oath-taking ceremony and his subsequent retreat to his residence in Ambala further underscored his dissatisfaction. Despite attempts to downplay the situation by party officials, Vij's actions indicate simmering tensions within the BJP's Haryana leadership.
Anil Vij, a seasoned politician and six-time MLA, has a history of vocalising his grievances within the party. His discontent over the years has been evident through various instances where he has challenged party decisions and leadership choices.