Akali-BJP Alliance Back in Talks? Here's What Leaders Are Saying

Chandigarh : After years of political estrangement, discussions of a potential alliance between the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have begun to stir interest again in Punjab's political corridors.

Senior Akali leader Balwinder Singh Bhunder has stated that while the SAD is open to considering an alliance, it hinges on the BJP resolving core issues facing Punjab — including the plight of captive Sikhs, border trade demands, army recruitment policies, and water disputes.

“Punjab can only be saved if these key issues are addressed,” Bhunder emphasized, reiterating that the SAD has always fought on principles.

Amid growing speculation, BJP leader SS Channy hinted at openness toward an alliance but added a twist — the BJP, this time, seeks to play the "elder brother" in the equation. This implies a shift in power dynamics, as previously the Akali Dal had a dominant seat share in the alliance, often contesting over 90 out of 117 Assembly seats.

Former Punjab Minister Manoranjan Kalia, while acknowledging the past harmony in the SAD-BJP partnership, clarified that any final decision on the alliance will rest with the BJP’s central leadership.

“We can only suggest; the final call will be made by the high command of both parties,” he said.

Though the two parties parted ways in 2020 over the farm laws and contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections separately, recent statements and gestures — including Sukhbir Singh Badal’s praise for PM Modi — indicate a thaw in relations. Still, political analysts believe a reunion will require substantial negotiations, particularly on ideological alignment and seat-sharing terms.

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