SAD’s bypoll retreat

THE Shiromani Akali Dal’s (SAD) decision to refrain from contesting the upcoming bypolls in Punjab marks a strategic and unprecedented retreat. It reflects the party’s internal struggle with its public image, political alliances and religious obligations. Citing the Akal Takht's declaration of Sukhbir Singh Badal as 'tankhaiya' (guilty of religious misconduct), SAD has opted for a stance that aligns with religious obligations, hoping to reinforce its panthic loyalty. However, at the same time, this decision raises questions about the party's political stability and duties toward its supporters. Once a dominant force in Punjab politics, the SAD has seen a marked decline since its 2017 electoral defeat and a subsequent fracturing of support. The Akal Takht’s directive against Sukhbir, resulting from decisions taken during the SAD’s decade-long coalition government with the BJP, has placed the party in a precarious position. The Takht order not only limits Sukhbir’s political mobility but also restricts SAD’s ability to campaign confidently, forcing a retreat at a critical juncture.

By pulling out of the byelections, the SAD seems to be aiming to preserve its core values and respect for religious authority — and, resultantly, regain some moral high ground. However, considering SAD’s poor performance in the recent elections, the withdrawal from the electoral fray also reflects the party’s attempt to shield itself against an impending electoral debacle. It smacks of a face-saving strategy in the light of likely losses.

At the same time, the decision risks the party’s further alienation from the electorate, exposing it to questions about its resilience. With the Assembly elections two years away, the SAD needs to reinvent its strategy. It must navigate carefully, balancing the interests and trust of both its panthic base and the broader Punjabi electorate.