Nayab Singh Saini was sworn in as Haryana’s Chief Minister on Thursday during a grand ceremony in Panchkula, attended by prominent leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Saini, a significant OBC leader, returns to the role after replacing Manohar Lal Khattar earlier this year.
The ceremony coincided with Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti. Prior to taking the oath, Saini offered prayers at Valmiki Temple in Panchkula, highlighting the day’s symbolic importance. The event was attended by approximately 50,000 people, with extensive security measures in place and 14 LED screens set up for public viewing. Notable attendees included opposition leaders, farmers, and representatives from various social organizations.
Following the swearing-in, a meeting of Chief Ministers and Deputy CMs from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is scheduled to discuss national development and the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Emergency. This conclave will be crucial as the ruling coalition strategizes for the Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections.
Key Highlights of the Ceremony and NDA Meeting
- Saini’s Leadership: Nayab Singh Saini returns as Chief Minister after a successful tenure in the recent state elections. He was initially appointed in March, taking over from Khattar.
- New Cabinet Members: Alongside Saini, several BJP MLAs took their oaths as part of the council of ministers, including Anil Vij from Ambala Cantt and Krishan Lal Panwar from Panipat. Other notable inductees include Rao Narbir Singh, Mahipal Dhanda, and Vipul Goel.
- Constitutional Framework: According to Article 164 (1A) of the Constitution, the Haryana council of ministers can include a maximum of 13 members, including the Chief Minister.
- Symbolic Gesture: In a statement, Saini emphasized the significance of worshipping at Valmiki Temple, connecting it to the message of social reform attributed to Maharishi Valmiki, especially in light of opposition narratives against BJP policies.
- Traffic Restrictions: Roads around Shalimar Ground in Panchkula were closed to the public until 3 PM on the day of the ceremony.
- NDA CMs Conclave: Immediately following the swearing-in, a high-level meeting of NDA Chief Ministers and Deputy CMs will convene in Chandigarh. Discussions will focus on development initiatives and the ongoing ‘Samvidhan Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, as well as reflections on the Emergency’s historical context.
- Security Measures: The Chandigarh administration has declared a “no-flying zone” for drones and UAVs from October 16 to 18, with exemptions for law enforcement and authorized personnel.
This ceremonial swearing-in not only marks Saini’s return to leadership but also sets the stage for critical political discussions ahead of key state elections.
