Chandigarh: Despite his clashes with leadership, outspoken remarks, and independent streak, Anil Vij remains an indispensable figure for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Haryana. A seven-time MLA with deep roots in Ambala Cantonment, Vij’s influence stretches far beyond his constituency, making him crucial for the party’s success in the state.
Vij’s position in the BJP was highlighted again this year when he walked out of a party meeting in protest against the elevation of Nayab Singh Saini to Chief Minister. Angered by the decision, he skipped the swearing-in ceremony in March, making his discontent public. Yet, just seven months later, on October 17, Vij took the oath as a minister in Saini’s new cabinet, reaffirming his political resilience and importance to the BJP despite frequent friction with party leaders.
Anil Vij’s Political Clout
Vij’s return to the cabinet underscores his unmatched hold on Ambala Cantonment, a seat he has won seven times. His reputation as an accessible leader, always ready to address the concerns of his constituents through his famous Janata Darbars, has made him a favorite among voters. Known for resolving issues across departments—whether police, revenue, or urban local bodies—he has built a loyal support base that transcends party politics.
Vij’s influence extends to the entire Ambala division, which comprises 18 Assembly constituencies. While the BJP performed well in this region during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, leading in all 18 segments, the party’s grip weakened during the Assembly elections, winning just nine seats. The Congress, on the other hand, outperformed the BJP, claiming 12 seats. Without Vij’s leadership, it would be challenging for the BJP to reverse this trend and regain control in this critical region in future elections.
Clashes with Khattar and the BJP
Vij’s history of run-ins with BJP leadership, especially with former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, has been a recurring theme throughout his political career. Known for his blunt and often controversial remarks, Vij has never shied away from expressing his dissatisfaction with decisions made by the party, especially when they undermine his authority.
One notable incident occurred in October 2023 when Vij made headlines by directing the suspension of 372 investigating officers for failing to act on pending complaints for over a year. His action led to over 100 officers being suspended, highlighting his willingness to shake up the system. This wasn’t the first time Vij had butted heads with Khattar. In December 2020, the two clashed over control of the intelligence wing. While Vij, then holding the Home portfolio, insisted on regular briefings from intelligence officials, the department ultimately came under Khattar’s authority after intervention from the party’s central leadership.
These power struggles cost Vij several key portfolios, including the Department of Technical Education and the Department of Science and Technology, both of which were merged with the Higher Education Department under a different minister. Despite these setbacks, Vij has remained an influential and vocal figure in Haryana politics.
Vij’s Bid for Chief Minister
In the lead-up to the Assembly elections, Vij made it clear that he believed his seniority entitled him to a shot at the Chief Minister’s post. During an interaction with reporters, he confidently stated, “Agli mulaqat ab Mukhyamantri awaas par hogi” (I shall meet you all next at the Chief Minister’s residence). His ambition, while bold, reflected his deep-rooted confidence in his political standing within the state.
However, after the election results, Vij appeared to soften his stance, clarifying that he never explicitly demanded the CM post but would willingly take on the role if the party entrusted him with it. “I am a committed soldier of the BJP,” he said, emphasizing his loyalty to the party and readiness to fulfill any responsibilities given to him.
A Veteran of Haryana Politics
Born on March 15, 1953, in Ambala Cantonment, Vij’s journey into politics began over four decades ago, with significant influence from the late Sushma Swaraj, a two-time MLA from Ambala Cantonment. In 1990, when Swaraj was elected to the Rajya Sabha, she urged Vij to resign from his job at a nationalized bank and contest the bypoll for the BJP, launching his political career. The following year, he was appointed state president of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha, marking the beginning of a long and influential political career.
The Indispensable Anil Vij
Despite frequent controversies and clashes within the BJP, Vij’s undeniable electoral strength and influence in Haryana have made him a vital asset to the party. His ability to connect with voters and his deep roots in state politics ensure that he remains a key player in the party’s strategy, especially as the BJP aims to maintain its grip on power in Haryana.
As the BJP moves forward under new leadership in the state, Anil Vij’s presence will continue to be felt—his survival instincts, political acumen, and unshakable support base making him an enduring force in Haryana’s political landscape.
