As counting began for the high-stakes Assembly elections in Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir on Tuesday, early trends showed Congress candidates taking the lead in both regions, sparking celebrations among party workers. By 9:30 am, Congress was ahead in 18 seats in Haryana and 33 seats in Jammu and Kashmir.
Visuals from outside the Congress office showed party workers, including Jagdish Sharma, distributing sweets such as jalebis and laddoos while dancing to the beats of ‘dhol’ as vote counting continued. Supporters also gathered outside the party headquarters, chanting slogans in favor of Congress, anticipating victory in both states.
Speaking to ANI, Congress worker Jagdish Sharma expressed confidence in the party’s triumph, stating, “This is Haryana’s famous jalebi. Today, it has the sweet taste of victory. People of Haryana love jalebi, and now they love Rahul Gandhi’s jalebi of love and affection. The entire state stands with him.”
Congress workers attributed the positive trends to Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra and Nyay Yatra, initiatives that resonated with the public by advocating for farmers, women, and laborers, and promoting inclusivity across caste and religion.
“This is a victory for truth over lies. Even BJP supporters are congratulating us,” Sharma added. “Rahul Gandhi’s efforts for inclusivity have struck a chord with the people, and we are confident of winning both Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir.”
Meanwhile, the counting of votes began at 8 am for the 90 seats in Jammu and Kashmir, which saw polling in three phases from September 18 to October 1. In Haryana, polling concluded in a single phase on October 5.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini expressed optimism about securing a third consecutive term for the BJP, crediting the party’s past decade of governance. “Our government works for the people, while Congress only seeks power. I am confident that the work we’ve done will ensure we continue serving the people of Haryana.”
Saini offered prayers at a local temple before the counting process began. The Election Commission set up 93 counting centers across Haryana’s 90 constituencies, and observers have been appointed to oversee the process.
In Jammu and Kashmir, National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah remained hopeful, stating, “We fought the good fight, and InshaAllah, the results will reflect that.”
The Election Commission reported a 63.88% voter turnout in Jammu & Kashmir, with security tightened at counting centers. Results will be made available through the Election Commission’s website and the Voter Helpline App.
Exit polls had predicted a win for Congress in Haryana and an edge for the Congress-National Conference alliance in Jammu & Kashmir. These results are expected to shape the political landscape ahead of upcoming elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand.
