Following the defeat in the Ludhiana by-elections, Shiromani Akali Dal (ShiaD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are once again exploring the possibility of a renewed alliance. Leaders believe that fighting elections together would strengthen their political position.
Punjab Politics: The Bharatiya Janata Party and the Shiromani Akali Dal suffered a significant defeat in the Ludhiana West Assembly by-elections. Following this setback, discussions regarding the restoration of their old alliance have intensified between the two parties. Party leaders now recognize that their strategy of contesting elections independently has consistently resulted in losses.
By-Election Defeat Alters Political Landscape
In Ludhiana West, the BJP finished third, and ShiaD came in fourth. This outcome has raised questions about the political strategies of both parties. While Aam Aadmi Party secured victory in this constituency, the BJP and ShiaD experienced a considerable drop in vote share.
Separate, Weakened Strength of Both Parties
Following the protests against agricultural laws in 2020, ShiaD dissolved its alliance with the BJP. Since then, both parties have contested elections independently in Punjab. Consequently, in the 2022 Assembly elections, ShiaD was limited to just three seats, while the BJP secured only two. The BJP also failed to win a single seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, with ShiaD reduced to a single MP.
Lack of Trust in By-Elections Too
Since 2022, six by-elections have been held in Punjab. ShiaD participated in only four of these elections, contesting in Jalandhar West and Ludhiana West, but ultimately lost. During this time, voters have begun to believe that the strategy of these parties contesting elections independently has lost its effectiveness.
Divisions in Voting Patterns Contributed to the Loss
In the Ludhiana West by-election, the BJP and ShiaD collectively received 28,526 votes, while Aam Aadmi Party secured 35,179 votes alone. A senior leader from ShiaD stated that if the two parties had been united, the seat could have been won. They also believe it’s time to engage in a political battle together to re-establish their presence in the state.
A Legacy of Alliance
Since the reorganization of Punjab in 1966, ShiaD and the BJP have formed a government eight times. This alliance has been a significant force in Punjab’s politics for a long time. Former Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal often referred to this alliance as a ‘bond of flesh and blood.’ Consequently, many veteran leaders from both parties are now demanding a return to this model.
Renewed Emphasis on Religious Unity
BJP President Sunil Jakhar has been persistently urging the party high command to emphasize ‘religious unity,’ attempting to convince them of the importance of the alliance. He believes that the cooperation between ShiaD and the BJP is essential for maintaining balance and stability in Punjab’s politics. Furthermore, this alliance could play a crucial role in preserving social harmony in the state.
