Sunil Jakhar’s Possible Resignation: A Political Analysis on the Turmoil in Punjab BJP

Saptrishi Soni:

In recent weeks, Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar has hinted at stepping down from his position, citing internal conflicts and dissatisfaction with party leadership decisions. This potential resignation comes at a critical time, just ahead of the panchayat elections, placing the BJP in a precarious position as it seeks to solidify its influence in Punjab—a state where it traditionally struggles to gain traction.

Jakhar, a prominent Hindu Jat leader and former Congress veteran, joined the BJP in 2022, intending to bridge the party’s disconnect with Punjab’s agrarian population. His appointment initially boosted BJP’s popularity, evidenced by a near-doubling of its vote share in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. However, Jakhar’s leadership has been marred by challenges, notably his discontent over his role’s limitations, perceived interference from other BJP leaders, and the broader strategy the party adopted, particularly in appointing former Congressmen, including Ravneet Singh Bittu, to key positions over longstanding BJP members.

Jakhar’s frustrations reflect deeper issues within BJP’s Punjab unit, including its struggle to rebuild an image after the farm law protests. The party’s efforts to align with rural Punjabi values have been slow, hindered by divisions over policy direction and a perception that BJP is more interested in winning the Sikh-majority state’s symbolic power rather than genuinely understanding its core issues. Jakhar’s Hindu identity, alongside his decision not to wear a turban, has reportedly contributed to the challenges of connecting with Sikh voters, who view these aspects through a cultural lens unique to Punjab politics.

The internal rifts became particularly visible when Jakhar recently missed a crucial BJP membership drive, signaling his growing detachment. The BJP has struggled to contain the tensions, with senior leaders attempting to assuage Jakhar but without addressing some of the fundamental disagreements he has raised.

This situation places Punjab BJP at a crossroads, particularly as it faces upcoming elections. Jakhar’s leadership, if retained, could be instrumental in bringing stability, but if he resigns, the BJP might face an identity crisis in Punjab, potentially impacting its future electoral strategies. For Jakhar, the situation underscores the complexities of navigating Punjab’s political landscape, which requires careful attention to cultural, agrarian, and communal sensitivities.

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