Old allies, new equation? Why SAD and BJP may join hands for Punjab polls

New Delhi: Recent developments suggest that the BJP and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) may consider forming an alliance for the 2027 Punjab assembly elections. This speculation was sparked by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, marking their first such encounter since the two parties severed ties six years ago over the contentious farm bills.

Haryana Chief Minister and BJP's Punjab strategist, Naveen Singh Saini, dismissed alliance rumors, stating that the BJP's alliance is with the people of Punjab.

SAD's electoral performance over the past few years has been declining, with the party winning only 3 seats in the 2022 assembly elections and its vote share dropping to 18.38%. This decline was also evident in the 2019 and 2014 Lok Sabha elections, where the SAD's seat tally and vote share significantly reduced. Badal, who has been striving to revive his party's fortunes, appears to be desperate for a political alliance to ensure the SAD's survival in the state.

The SAD chief's shift in stance on the delimitation of constituencies is another factor that could encourage the BJP's consideration of an alliance. Initially opposing the Centre's move on delimitation, Badal later supported the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill and the increase in Parliament seats for states. This change in position may have influenced the BJP's perception of the SAD's willingness to cooperate in the upcoming elections.