With the record polling percentage of 75.60 in Himachal having marginally surpassed the figure of the last Assembly poll, both the BJP and the Congress, not wanting to be outmanoeuvred in case of a fractured verdict, are eyeing prominent Independent candidates, mostly rebels, who could emerge winner
Over 55 lakh voters will have the opportunity to decide if BJP will be the first party to be re-elected in 37 years. The role of AAP, independents and other parties can also prove crucial.
While two former MPs have turned rebels in BJP, two former ministers who were denied tickets are unhappy with Congress. In a state which has seen a straight contest between these two parties, AAP has already complicated affairs.