Chandigarh: In a significant political development in Punjab, Dakha MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali is set to formally join Waris Punjab De (WPD), the organisation associated with jailed MP Amritpal Singh, at an event in Chandigarh on Tuesday.
The programme will be attended by Amritpal Singh’s father, Tarsem Singh, who is expected to preside over the event.
Ayali, a rebel Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) legislator, confirmed the development and said he had been associated with the organisation for several months. During recent local body elections, several of his supporters reportedly campaigned while displaying photographs of Amritpal Singh.
Since Waris Punjab De is not registered as a political party with the Election Commission, Ayali is unlikely to face disqualification under anti-defection provisions. However, his move could invite disciplinary action from the Shiromani Akali Dal.
Speaking about the organisation’s future plans, Ayali claimed that several prominent political leaders and public figures could associate themselves with the outfit in the coming months. He said the organisation was steadily building its presence at the grassroots level across Punjab.
Responding to speculation about the possible entry of Aam Aadmi Party MLA Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh into the organisation, Ayali said discussions were ongoing and suggested that such a possibility could not be ruled out.
Ayali was previously associated with a dissident Akali faction before distancing himself from it. Political observers view his decision as a notable boost for Waris Punjab De as it attempts to broaden its influence in Punjab’s political landscape.
The development is expected to generate fresh political debate ahead of future electoral contests in the state.
