Alliance is Almost Certain, But… BJP-Akali Dal Unable to Reach a Final Decision

The BJP has taken the Punjab elections very prestigiously and is making swift moves to seize power there at any cost this time. However, BJP National General Secretary (Organisation) B.L. Santhosh made a key announcement stating that they would enter the fray alone. Nevertheless, both the BJP and Akali Dal are continuing their efforts toward an alliance. Discussions between both parties have been occurring sporadically, but they are not reaching the final stage.

Despite all this happening, both parties are unable to make a definitive call on the alliance. However, they have come to a final conclusion that there should be an alliance between them. This time, the BJP has intensified its efforts to gain the upper hand and has decided to act as the senior partner. Because of this, Akali Dal appears to be hesitant, considering that if the BJP becomes the senior partner, it will take a hit in terms of seats, leaving Akali Dal with no chance to demand more seats.

However, a key indication that there is a scope for an alliance is that SAD has reportedly advised its leaders not to prepare for seats in rural areas. Based on this, it appears that the BJP may contest in more constituencies compared to the previous alliance.

Meanwhile, the BJP has intensified its organizational preparations in Punjab. During his recent visit to the state, BJP National General Secretary B.L. Santhosh reportedly directed party leaders to prepare for all 117 Assembly constituencies.

The Akali Dal and BJP have been long-term allies, but they parted ways in September 2020 due to differences over the controversial three farm laws. Together, they contested six Lok Sabha elections (1998, 1999, 2004, 2009, 2014, and 2019) and five Punjab Assembly elections (1997, 2002, 2007, 2012, and 2017). In the 2022 Punjab elections where they contested separately, Akali Dal suffered a dismal defeat winning just three seats, while the BJP managed to win only two seats.