Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar has strongly advocated for reviving the BJP-Akali Dal (SAD) alliance, emphasizing that such a partnership is “the need of the hour” to ensure communal harmony in Punjab. In an interview with The Tribune, Jakhar highlighted how forces inimical to Punjab’s interests are resurfacing, much as they did in the 1990s when the BJP-SAD pact was first forged to stabilize Punjab after a turbulent era. He warned that ignoring the larger interest of the state could open the door to divisive or radical forces.
More Than Electoral Strategy: Emotional Core and Respect
Jakhar articulated that for the BJP to make real inroads in Punjab, the focus should be on winning the trust and hearts of Punjabis, rather than merely chasing electoral numbers. He stressed the need to connect with the “emotional core” of the state and respect its distinctive identity, culture, and sense of self-esteem, symbolized by traditions such as ‘pagdi’ and ‘dastar.’ According to Jakhar, Punjab is not just a geographical entity, but a proud, self-respecting society with a deep legacy of resistance against injustice—a tradition rooted in the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh.
Warning Against Bureaucratic Overreach
Jakhar blamed recent irritants in Punjab’s polity on what he termed the “deep state and entrenched bureaucratic establishment,” which, he argued, has influenced decision-making and created unnecessary tensions between Punjab and the centre. He pointed out contentious administrative changes such as the shift in the Punjab-Haryana officer ratio for Chandigarh, changes to the administrator’s advisory post, and opening up of BBMB slots reserved for Punjab. He argued these moves served no broader political purpose and only fueled resentment within the state.
Reviving the 1996 Spirit for Today’s Challenges
Reflecting on the origin of the alliance, Jakhar recalled how, in 1996, the BJP consciously agreed to a secondary role to the Akali Dal in the state’s politics in exchange for communal harmony, accepting just 23 assembly seats and urban dominance while Akalis led in rural areas. He noted that even though this partnership limited the BJP’s growth for decades, the larger purpose—the peace and stability of Punjab—was always prioritized. Today, as Punjab again witnesses the stirrings of disruptive forces, Jakhar believes another coming together of the two traditional alliance partners is crucial to safeguard the state’s future.
Congress and the Landscape of Punjab Politics
Jakhar also criticized the Congress, accusing it of divisive politics and undermining the secular, inclusive ethos of “Punjabiyat.” He alleged that Congress had reduced Hindus to second-class citizens, especially when he himself was denied the Chief Minister’s post after Amarinder Singh’s resignation, citing his Hindu background. He positioned the Congress as the main rival to the BJP in Punjab, warning that their approach posed a greater danger to communal harmony than any other force.
BJP’s Growth and the Need for Healing
Pointing to the party’s growing vote share—from 6.6 percent in the 2022 Assembly elections to 18.56 percent in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls—Jakhar said the BJP’s popularity is rising, but true success in Punjab will only come if the party heals old wounds and builds trust. He observed that despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts—such as opening the Kartarpur Corridor and commemorating Sikh martyrdoms—historical mistrust still lingers. The BJP, according to Jakhar, must acknowledge Punjab’s contribution to the nation and provide leadership built on respect, service, and integrity rather than just political calculus.
The Way Forward
Jakhar’s repeated calls for a renewed BJP-Akali Dal alliance reflect broader concerns about communal stability, regional pride, and political inclusivity in Punjab. He argues that only by coming together can both parties ensure peace, counter radicalization, and offer the state strong stewardship, especially amid a fast-changing political landscape. While Akali Dal today faces its own internal splits and waning influence, Jakhar believes that the social cause of Punjab overrides short-term differences. He urged both sides to move beyond past grievances and prioritize the collective future of the state.
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