Talks of a possible alliance between the BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) are gaining momentum in Punjab ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. While senior BJP leaders like Captain Amarinder Singh and Sunil Jakhar openly support reviving the alliance, another faction insists the party should contest alone.
Amarinder Singh has stated that without SAD, BJP may struggle to win not only in 2027 but even in 2032. Jakhar has echoed similar views. Both leaders argue that BJP is strong in urban areas while SAD holds influence in rural Punjab.
However, leaders like Union Minister Ravneet Bittu and acting state president Ashwani Sharma claim BJP should fight independently, saying the party’s grassroots support is growing. They maintain that the final decision lies with the high command.
SAD, once a dominant force with strong rural and Panthic appeal, has weakened significantly, winning only three seats in 2022 and facing internal splits. A revived alliance is seen as beneficial for the party.
Speculation has caused unease in AAP and Congress. AAP minister Harpal Cheema criticised the past BJP-SAD rule, while Congress leader Pargat Singh said both parties have conflicting ideologies.
