Talk of SAD-BJP reunion gains traction after byelection result

The talk about a possible re-alliance between the SAD and the BJP in Punjab has resurfaced after the results of the Ludhiana (West) bypoll. Both parties ended up at the third and fourth positions, respectively, reigniting discussions about the potential benefits of re-aligning.

A number of middle-rung leaders of both parties have been pushing for a partnership between the two for a long time now. They insist that the re-alliance could make them a formidable force in the state. However, it seems the seat-sharing issue remains a major obstacle.

The BJP polled 20,323 votes in the Ludhiana bypoll, while the SAD got 8,203 votes. Had the parties fought in alliance, their candidate would have emerged second in the contest. Campaigning together might have got them additional votes too.

BJP state president Sunil Jakhar said, “Of course. An alliance with the Akalis would have made a difference. But I have already made it clear that the BJP will not be a younger brother in the alliance. The earlier seat sharing formula (23 for the BJP and 94 for the Akalis) has no basis. It has to be equal at least.”

He said, “The BJP is encouraged with the bypoll results. We have got 22 per cent votes and it is clear the BJP is the only alternative in Punjab now.”

He said, “We can look for an alliance but only with a credible Panthic party, which has the approval of the Akal Takht.”

The statement indicates that the BJP’s doors are open for the rebel Akalis as well. It sends an important message to the SAD and the Sikh Panth that the BJP accords high regard to the Akal Takht, whereas the SAD has been in confrontation with the supreme temporal seat of the Sikhs in recent times.

The Akalis also value the alliance, but do not seem desperate for it. “By sheer mathematics, it is clear that the SAD and the BJP would have done a lot better in this and the previous elections. But an alliance is not just mathematics. There are issues at hand, which can be dealt with by both parties through discussions,” said Daljit Singh Cheema, SAD spokesperson.

This was the first election for the SAD after it faced several controversies, including Tankhah punishment to its top leadership by the Akal Takht. The controversy on confrontation with the Akal Takht is still not over as the rebels are continuing with their membership drive.

Despite finishing fourth, Cheema said, “Our vote percentage in this Assembly segment has increased to 9.1 from about 8 per cent earlier.”

Punjab