Analysis: Akali Dal's Old Guard Returns, But Can Badals Win Back Punjab?

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), once Punjab's dominant political force, is attempting to rebuild its organisation ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, with the return of prominent former leaders signalling a possible consolidation of the party. Former three-time MP Prem Singh Chandumajra rejoined the Sukhbir Singh Badal-led Akali Dal on Friday, November 6, along with his son and former MLA Harinderpal Singh Chandumajra.

Former SGPC president Bibi Jagir Kaur is also set to return, with sources in the SAD and SAD (Punar Surjit) confirming the development. The homecoming of these leaders could encourage more disgruntled members to return to the parent organisation, dealing a setback to the breakaway faction.The developments assume significance amid the BJP's renewed efforts to bring together Akali factions and explore a possible NDA arrangement in Punjab.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken about an NDA government in the state, fuelling speculation about a revival of the BJP-SAD alliance that ended in 2020 over the farm laws.