Crisis In SAD Splinter Groups; Neither is Registered or Has Election Symbol

November

2026

With about 100 days left to Panjab election in early February 2027, two political parties that splintered from Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) are facing crises. Factionalism within Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De, WPD) has intensified, with the suspended five-member principal drafting committee challenging the party leadership’s decision to dissolve the organizational structure in 23 districts and appealing to the Sikh community, including the diaspora, to intervene to save the outfit. The committee members questioned the dissolution of the district-level organizational units and alleged that the party was straying from the ideals of Panthic (Sikh Collective) identity, political autonomy, and Sikh sovereignty espoused by its jailed Khadoor Sahib Member of Parliament, Amritpal Singh. While a section of the leadership favors a relatively liberal and secular political approach to broaden its electoral appeal, those adhering to a traditional Panthic ideology are uncomfortable with the shift. Also, Dakha’s SAD Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA)—who joined WPD but did not resign from SAD or the Punjab Legislative Assembly—Manpreet Singh Ayali’s rise, as an important strategist has made many within WPD uncomfortable due to his growing influence. Meanwhile, WPD's application for registration with the Election Commission of India, submitted in January 2025, remains pending, forcing it to approach the Delhi High Court. Concurrently, senior leader of Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit, PS) Prem Singh Chandumajra has quit and plans to return to SAD. A three-time Member of Parliament from SAD, Chandumajra had recently met Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Amit Shah in Delhi, after which he made the statement. PS too does not have an election symbol and would need to be part of a registered party to contest elections. Responding to Chandumajra’s exodus, PS secretary general Gurpartap Singh Wadala said the party would stay intact, continue its mission of cleansing Panthic politics. He also remained open to a triangular alliance with the BJP, but said the party would not borrow anyone’s symbol. Furthermore, the Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at the premises of ruling Aam Aadmi Party MLA Dr. Amandeep Kaur Arora in Moga. The searches are 'in connection with fraudulent acquisition of government and institutionalized properties, and misappropriation of public funds'. Dr. Amandeep alleged she was pressured 'to join the BJP and get a ministerial position', which she refused as a 'loyal soldier of Arvind Kejriwal' (earlier coverage).