The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced to independently contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Punjab, marking a major shift amid speculations of a potential solo run by its former ally, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). Earlier, there were talks for the alliance between the two parties.

In a video statement shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sunil Jakhar, the BJP's Punjab unit chief, announced the party's decision to go solo in the state. Jakhar said that the move was the result of consultations with leaders, party workers, and the general public, citing potential benefits for all sections of society in Punjab. 

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“The decision was taken after speaking to leaders, party workers, and common people. The move will benefit all sections of the society here in Punjab. No one has worked for Punjab the way prime minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government at the Centre has," Jakhar said.

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Punjab, with its 13 parliamentary seats, witnessed a BJP-SAD alliance under the former-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) during the 2019 general elections, securing four seats collectively. However, the Congress emerged victorious on eight seats, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) clinched one.

The alliance dynamics underwent a seismic shift in September 2020 when the Shiromani Akali Dal exited the NDA in protest against the central government's introduction of contentious farm laws. The legislation sparked widespread farmer protests, primarily in Punjab, with support extending from neighboring states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

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BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa echoing party's sentiments said that party is going to contest on all the 13 seats alone. "The party has decided that we will contest all 13 seats on our own. We want to remain in direct contact with the people of Punjab... We are sure, PM Modi will win in Punjab also," Sirsa said.


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