Amit Shah Targets Congress, Makes Key Announcement at BJP’s ‘Badlaav Rally’ in Moga

Ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organised a “Badlaav Rally” in Moga on Saturday, where India’s Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed party supporters and made several key announcements. Amit Shah arrived at the rally wearing a saffron turban and was warmly welcomed by BJP leaders. He began his speech with the traditional Sikh slogan “Bole So Nihal.” During the rally, Shah put an end to speculation about a possible alliance between the BJP and the Shiromani Akali Dal for the 2027 elections. He announced that the BJP would contest the Punjab Assembly polls independently with the aim of forming its own government in the state. Shah stated that if Punjab is to become drug-free, it would require a “double-engine government” led by the BJP. He alleged that the state has been severely affected by debt, drug abuse, religious conversions and corruption. He urged voters to give the BJP an opportunity if they want to address youth unemployment and other challenges. Clarifying the party’s position, Shah said the BJP would not enter the elections in Punjab as a junior partner but would instead aim to form the government on its own strength. The Union Home Minister also criticised the Indian National Congress and raised the issue of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. He also targeted Rahul Gandhi while discussing the matter. Shah claimed that the BJP-led government had registered 350 cases related to the riots and ensured action against those involved, while alleging that no Congress leader had been jailed during the Congress government’s tenure. He further stated that the government had provided compensation of ₹5 lakh to each family affected by the riots. Shah added that citizenship had been granted to Sikhs who migrated from Afghanistan and Pakistan, and highlighted the construction of the Kartarpur Corridor as a significant initiative. Shah also referred to financial figures, stating that during the Congress government the budget stood at ₹22,000 crore, which has now increased to ₹1.40 lakh crore under the leadership of Narendra Modi. He added that farmers are receiving ₹6,000 annually and that ₹13,050 crore has been provided under the farmers’ welfare scheme.