New Delhi/Chandigar (Gurpreet Singh): The BJP’s central leadership has called Punjab BJP president Kewal Dhillon and state organising secretary Mantri Srinivasulu to Delhi for discussions, a day after Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Badal met Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The development comes amid heightened political activity in Punjab, with the BJP assessing its organisational preparedness and electoral strategy ahead of the next Assembly elections.
Leaders leave Ludhiana meetings midway
Dhillon and Srinivasulu were in Ludhiana on Saturday, where they were attending meetings with the BJP’s recently elected state office-bearers and district presidents.
However, both leaders reportedly left the programme before its completion after receiving instructions to travel to Delhi.
A separate meeting on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise was also scheduled in Ludhiana following the organisational meeting.
Timing of summons draws attention
The decision to call the two senior Punjab leaders to Delhi has attracted attention because it came shortly after Sukhbir Badal’s meeting with PM Modi.
The BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal had been allies for several years before their political relationship broke down. Their recent interactions have consequently prompted speculation over whether the two parties could explore political cooperation again.
There has, however, been no official announcement confirming any alliance or seat-sharing arrangement.
State unit faces internal unease
Apart from electoral planning, dissatisfaction within the Punjab BJP may also be discussed during the Delhi meeting.
The party’s recent restructuring has reportedly led to resentment among a section of leaders. Former minister Tikshan Sood and some leaders associated with him have stepped down from their organisational responsibilities in protest against the changes.
The central leadership is expected to assess the situation and hear the concerns surrounding the reorganisation of the state unit.
Focus likely to remain on 2027 strategy
Sources within the party have also indicated that preparations for the Punjab Assembly elections could form part of the discussions.
The BJP has been working on strengthening its organisational structure in the state and determining its broader political strategy. Recent consultations between senior central leaders and the Punjab unit have also focused on preparations for the electoral battle.
According to the information available, BJP national general secretary (organisation) BL Santosh and national general secretary Nitin Nabin are expected to hold discussions with Dhillon and Srinivasulu in Delhi.
The meeting is being closely watched in Punjab as the BJP balances internal organisational concerns with preparations for the next major electoral contest.
