Chandigarh: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) senior leader Naresh Gujral has described the recent meeting between party president Sukhbir Singh Badal and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as an early step towards reopening communication between the two former allies, rather than a final decision on an alliance.
Speaking to media, Gujral described the meeting as “muh dikhai, roka nahi”, saying it indicated that the doors, which had remained closed between the SAD and BJP for a long time, had now opened slightly.
The meeting between Badal and Modi has fuelled speculation about a possible revival of the SAD-BJP alliance ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. However, the BJP has maintained that it is preparing to contest all 117 Assembly seats on its own.
Gujral said the interaction between the two leaders showed that both were keeping Punjab’s interests in mind and were willing to assess the political situation and each other’s equations ahead of the elections.
BJP faces internal challenges
While the BJP has publicly maintained its standalone election strategy, concerns are reportedly emerging within the party over its organisational situation in Punjab.
Recent protests and political developments surrounding the education sector have added to the challenges facing the party. At the same time, discontent over organisational changes within the Punjab BJP has led to resignations by several leaders and supporters.
Against this backdrop, the meeting between Sukhbir Badal and PM Modi has assumed greater political significance, particularly as both parties continue to assess their prospects ahead of the 2027 Punjab polls.
