Chandigarh: Punjab BJP president Keval Singh Dhillon has ruled out any possibility of a political alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), stating that no discussions on a tie-up are taking place at any level and that such reports are merely speculation.
Addressing the media, Dhillon said the BJP would contest all 117 Assembly constituencies in Punjab on its own and was confident of forming the next government in the state. He added that the party’s central leadership had not held any discussions with the state unit regarding an alliance.
“The BJP will fight the Punjab Assembly elections independently. There is no truth in the rumours of an alliance with the Akali Dal,” Dhillon said.
The BJP leader claimed that Punjab’s political landscape would witness a major shift once the election process formally begins. He said people across the state were eagerly waiting for the implementation of the election code of conduct.
Dhillon also hit back at Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, including party convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who have recently commented on the possibility of an Akali Dal-BJP alliance. He accused Kejriwal of making baseless statements out of political desperation.
“Arvind Kejriwal can see his political ground slipping in Punjab and is resorting to misleading narratives. He is now trying to play the religion card to stay politically relevant,” Dhillon alleged.
He said Punjab has a long tradition of communal harmony and that Hindu-Sikh relations have remained strong even during difficult periods. He urged political leaders not to indulge in divisive politics.
Referring to recent Enforcement Directorate actions, Dhillon accused the AAP leadership of attempting to give investigations a political colour. He maintained that action should be taken against anyone found guilty, irrespective of political affiliation, while ensuring that innocent people are not harassed.
The Punjab BJP chief also announced that the party would soon formally launch its election campaign. As part of the preparations, BJP national president Nitin Nabin is scheduled to visit Punjab from June 20 to 22. Several Union ministers are also expected to begin their visits to the state from June 13 onwards.
Dhillon said he recently met Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who expressed concern over the law and order situation and the drug menace in Punjab. He added that significant political developments were likely in the state in the coming months.
