RP Singh, a member of the Punjab BJP core committee, visited Sukhbir Singh Badal at his residence in Sultanpur to enquire about his health. Sukhbir Badal has been recovering at his Delhi farmhouse after being attacked in Nanded, Maharashtra.

The meeting comes at a time when senior SAD leaders have openly indicated that the possibility of the two parties coming together again cannot be ruled out.

Also Read | Major tragedy averted as school bus with 43 children on board catches fire; passersby break windows to rescue kids

Also Read | Sukhbir Singh Badal meets PM Modi amid fresh buzz over possible BJP-SAD alliance ahead of Punjab Assembly elections 2027

Speaking about his meeting with Sukhbir Singh Badal, RP Singh said the political situation and the need to work towards Punjab's development were discussed.

He also expressed concern over the law and order situation in the state, describing the current situation as serious.

RP Singh said the Punjab Assembly elections 2027 would be about more than simply determining which political party comes to power.

"The current situation in Punjab is precarious. The 2027 elections in the state are no longer about who will win or lose. They are about saving Punjab," Singh said.

Notably, the BJP and SAD were long-standing allies before their relationship ended in September 2020 amid differences over the farm laws.

The possibility of reviving the alliance was also discussed ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, but talks did not lead to an agreement. 

For now, no formal alliance has been announced, but the latest meeting and statements from leaders on both sides have added to speculation about a possible BJP-SAD reunion.

The Election Commission has asked voters not to panic if they receive a notice. The notice is part of the verification process and voters can establish their eligibility by submitting the required documents within the given time.

The Election Commission's voter service portal also provides dedicated options to search names in the previous SIR roll and to submit documents against notices issued during SIR 2026.

The documents required during the verification process depend mainly on the voter's date of birth. The rules also provide an important benefit to people whose names, or those of their parents, can be linked to the relevant old electoral roll.



Why are some Punjab voters receiving SIR notices?

During SIR, electoral records are being checked and linked with earlier rolls. If a voter's current entry cannot be mapped with the previous record, the Election Registration Officer (ERO) may seek additional documents.

A notice does not automatically mean that a person's name has been deleted from the voter list. It means the voter may have to provide information or documents to establish the required details.

The Election Commission has also provided an online facility through its voter portal for submitting documents against an SIR notice.

First check the old SIR voter list

Before collecting a large number of documents, voters should first check whether their own name or a parent's name appears in the previous SIR electoral roll.

The ECI's portal has a “Search your name in last SIR E-Roll” facility. The search can be carried out using elector details and other information. The Commission has also cautioned that spellings may differ between old and current records, so voters may need to try variations of a name while searching.

For Punjab, the relevant old electoral record mentioned in the SIR process is the January 1, 2003 electoral roll.

If the required old record is found, it can make the verification process much easier. ECI material says electors whose names are present in the January 1, 2003, roll are required to submit the Enumeration Form along with an extract of the roll, without needing additional documents.

Which documents are required according to age?

The document requirement changes according to the voter's date of birth.

1. Born before July 1, 1987

If the ERO asks for documents, a person born before July 1, 1987 has to provide a document establishing their date or place of birth.

Examples of documents that may be used include birth certificate, Indian passport or matriculation or educational certificate issued by a recognised board

The Election Commission's SIR guidelines specifically provide for a document relating to the elector for this category.

2. Born between July 1, 1987, and December 2, 2004

People born during this period may have to provide two documents:

One document relating to themselves

One document relating to either their father or mother

The purpose is to establish the required personal and parental link during verification.

3. Born after December 2, 2004

For voters born after December 2, 2004, the requirement is generally three documents:

One document belonging to the voter

One document belonging to the father

One document belonging to the mother

This is because the verification requirement extends to both parents for this age group.

What documents can be used?

The documents required will depend on the issue mentioned in the notice. For date-of-birth verification, documents that clearly mention the date of birth can be useful. These may include a birth certificate, Indian passport, recognised board certificate, PAN card or driving licence, subject to the applicable SIR document requirements.

For place of birth or eligibility-related verification, documents such as a relevant residence or domicile certificate, passport or government/local-body family register may be considered where applicable.

Voters should read the notice carefully and submit documents according to the specific requirement mentioned by the ERO rather than submitting unrelated papers.

What if your name is already in the 2003 voter list?

This is one of the most important points for voters. If the voter's own name or the name of a parent appears in the January 1, 2003 electoral roll, the old record can help establish the electoral link. The ECI has made the previous SIR electoral data available through its voter service portal. Therefore, voters who receive a notice should first check the old roll before arranging additional documents.

What if your name is in the 2003 list but is still unmapped?

There can be cases where a person's name appears in the old electoral roll but the present entry has not been successfully mapped. This may happen because of differences in spelling, personal details or other information between the old and current records.

In such cases, voters should not ignore the notice. They should check the old record carefully and submit the required information or documents as instructed by the ERO.

The ECI's online search facility itself notes that spellings can vary between older SIR records and current electoral details.

What should you do after receiving an SIR notice?

Voters receiving a notice should follow these steps:

Step 1: Read the notice carefully and identify the reason for verification.

Step 2: Check your name and, where relevant, your parents' names in the January 1, 2003 electoral roll.

Step 3: Identify the documents required according to your date of birth and the issue mentioned in the notice.

Step 4: Keep copies of the required documents ready and submit them within the deadline mentioned in the notice.

Step 5: Follow the instructions provided by the ERO/AERO for physical submission or verification.

The ECI voter portal also currently provides an option to submit documents against a notice issued under SIR 2026.

Can documents be submitted online?

Yes. The Election Commission's Citizen Service Portal provides online services related to SIR 2026, including an option to submit documents against a notice.

Voters can use the official ECI voter portal for SIR-related services and to search the previous electoral roll.

If a voter is unable to complete the process online, they should follow the instructions in the notice and contact the election office concerned.

Keep the submission receipt safe

After submitting documents or an online response, voters should keep the acknowledgement or receipt safely.

It can be useful later if there is any question about whether the documents were submitted within the required period.

Voters should also avoid ignoring an SIR notice simply because their name appears on the current voter list.

Also Read | 18,000-foot peaks, no proper route: Sikh group from Punjab changes Nishan Sahib cholas near Hemkunt Sahib

1. What is SIR 2026?

SIR stands for Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. It is a process used by the Election Commission to verify and update voter records.

2. Why did I receive an SIR notice?

You may receive a notice if your current electoral entry could not be mapped or verified against the relevant previous electoral records and the ERO requires additional information or documents.

3. Does receiving a notice mean my vote has been cancelled?

No. A notice is part of the verification process. If you receive one, follow the instructions and submit the required documents within the specified time.

4. What should a person born before July 1, 1987 submit?

If documents are requested, the person generally needs a document relating to themselves to establish the required date or place of birth.

5. What is required for people born from July 1, 1987 to December 2, 2004?

They generally need two documents — one for themselves and one for either their father or mother.

6. What documents are required for those born after December 2, 2004?

They generally need three documents — one for themselves, one for their father and one for their mother.

7. Why is the 2003 voter list important?

The January 1, 2003 electoral roll can provide an important link for establishing an existing electoral record. ECI material says electors whose names are in that roll do not need to submit additional documents beyond the specified electoral-roll extract and Enumeration Form.

8. Where can I search my old voter record?

The ECI's Citizen Service Portal has a “Search your name in last SIR E-Roll” facility. It allows voters to search using elector details and other information.

9. Can I submit documents online after receiving a notice?

Yes. The ECI voter portal provides a “Submit Document Against Notice issued” facility under SIR 2026.

10. What should I do if I am confused about the SIR process?

Read the notice carefully and contact the election officials concerned  for clarification. The Election Commission's voter service portal lists 1950 as its toll-free contact number.

RELATED NEWS | Punjab SIR: Election Commission rolls out first draft electoral roll for 2027 Assembly polls| Know from where you can check your name

The surgery lasted around 90 minutes. Doctors said Sukhbir Singh Badal suffered a sharp injury to his right hand and a tendon injury. His condition is now stable and he is out of danger.

An official said the former Punjab deputy chief minister is expected to be discharged from the hospital on Friday and may be flown to Punjab in the afternoon.

Sukhbir Badal undergoes 90-minute surgery

Sukhbir Singh Badal was taken to Yashosai Hospital after sustaining an injury to his right hand during the attack. A doctor treating the Akali Dal leader said the surgical procedure continued for about one-and-a-half hours. “There was a tendon injury and a sharp wound. The affected nerve was treated,” the doctor said.

A plastic surgeon also treated Sukhbir Badal's ulnar artery. Doctors said he is currently out of danger and his condition remains stable.

Attack took place inside Nanded gurdwara

According to the police, Sukhbir Singh Badal was attacked by a person disguised himself as a Nihang inside Gurdwara Mata Sahib Devan Ji Mugat on the outskirts of Nanded city.

The incident took place while Sukhbir Singh Badal was present at the gurdwara. He suffered an injury to his right hand and was subsequently taken to hospital for medical treatment. The police have not yet established the motive behind the attack.

Also Read | Bikram Majithia demands CBI probe into Sukhbir Badal attack in Nanded, questions security failures

Also Read | Sukhbir Singh Badal attacked at Nanded gurdwara complex: Akal Takht Jathedar flays incident

A police official said arrangements were likely to be made to take Sukhbir Singh Badal back to Punjab by air on Friday afternoon.

The accused has been identified as Jaspal Singh. Police said they are still investigating why he allegedly attacked the SAD chief.

It is learnt the accused has been living alone in Nanded. He has degrees in commerce and law and is based with his family in Pune.

A case has been registered against him under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

The charges include attempt to murder, voluntarily causing hurt using dangerous weapons or means, and voluntarily causing grievous hurt to a public servant to prevent him from performing his duty.

Addressing a press conference, Bikram Singh Majithia strongly condemned the Nanded incident and said the failed attack should not be treated as an isolated event. He said Sukhbir Singh Badal was saved from a potentially fatal attack by the intervention of people present at the gurdwara.

Majithia says Sukhbir Badal targeted at a gurdwara again

Majithia said the Nanded incident was the second time Sukhbir Singh Badal had been targeted at a major Sikh religious site.

Referring to the December 2024 incident outside Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, he said the two incidents should be examined together instead of being treated separately.

According to Majithia, Sukhbir Badal had been visiting different gurdwaras in Nanded with his family and was participating in religious activities before the attack.

He said the family had travelled to Nanded to pay obeisance and perform seva, and photographs and videos from the visit showed Sukhbir Singh Badal receiving respect at the Takht and other gurdwaras.

‘A person going to Guru Ghar cannot go with violent intent’

Majithia said violence has no place inside a gurdwara and strongly criticised anyone who enters a religious place with the intention of harming another person.

He said wearing Sikh attire or a turban does not by itself make someone a follower of the Guru.

“A Sikh follows the path shown by the Guru. A person who attacks people at a gurdwara cannot be described as a Sikh merely because of his appearance,” Majithia said during the press conference.

He also recalled the Sikh teachings of Naam Japo, Kirat Karo and Vand Chhako, saying the principles of Sikhism are based on devotion, honest living and sharing.

Majithia raises questions over earlier attack

A major part of Majithia's press conference focused on the December 2024 attack on Sukhbir Singh Badal outside the Golden Temple.

He referred to the alleged attack by Narain Singh Chaura, a former Khalistani militant, and questioned how the accused was able to get close to Sukhbir Badal despite the security arrangements in place at the time.

Majithia alleged that the earlier investigation was not conducted properly and claimed that the accused was released on bail within a few months.

He argued that a more thorough investigation into the earlier case could potentially have helped prevent another attack.

Questions over police officers and security arrangements

Majithia also raised questions about the role of police officers who were involved in security arrangements during the earlier incident.

He referred to police officials, including Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, and questioned whether all aspects of the earlier case had been properly investigated.

Majithia said authorities should examine whether there were any intelligence or security failures and whether information available to law enforcement was acted upon appropriately.

Also Read | PM Modi dials Harsimrat Badal after Sukhbir Singh Badal attacked in Nanded; leaders flay violence at religious place

Also Read | Sukhbir Singh Badal attacked at Nanded gurdwara complex: Akal Takht Jathedar flays incident

Also Read | SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal attacked with kirpan in Maharashtra's Nanded, suffers minor injury in hand; inquiry ordered

He also questioned why the earlier case did not lead to a more comprehensive investigation into the alleged background and network of the accused.

Majithia called for a CBI probe into the latest attack and said the investigation should be independent and comprehensive. He said the inquiry should establish who planned or carried out the attack? Whether the Nanded incident had any connection with the earlier attack on Sukhbir Badal. Whether there were intelligence or security lapses. Whether anyone assisted or facilitated the alleged attacker. Whether the earlier investigation overlooked important leads.

He said the objective should be to uncover the complete truth rather than conduct a superficial inquiry.

Majithia warned against what he described as a repeat of the handling of the earlier attack. He said the latest incident should not end with a routine investigation and insisted that all available evidence and possible connections must be examined. He also appealed for stronger security for Sukhbir Singh Badal and his family.

The announcement has added to speculation about a possible SAD-BJP alliance for the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections, although neither party has confirmed any electoral understanding.


Also Read | Himachal Pradesh rain fury: 185 roads blocked, 104 transformers hit; yellow alert across state

After a meeting with senior SAD leaders at his Chandigarh residence on Saturday, Sukhbir Singh Badal said the Women’s Reservation Bill should be implemented without further delay. He said women should receive their due representation in legislatures at the earliest.

Sukhbir Singh Badal said the SAD draws inspiration from the teachings of Sikh Gurus, which emphasise the dignity, equality and equal rights of women.

He also pointed to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), saying it had already set an example by providing reservation for women in its House.

SAD supports uniform increase in Lok Sabha seats

The Akali Dal has also backed the Centre’s proposal for a uniform 50% increase in Lok Sabha seats for all states, instead of linking the delimitation exercise directly to the 2011 Census. He said both women’s reservation and delimitation should be implemented immediately.

SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema said the party had earlier opposed delimitation based on the 2011 Census. However, after discussions within the party, the leadership decided to support the proposal for a uniform expansion of Lok Sabha seats.

Cheema said the SAD wanted a fair system that ensures equal representation for all states.

Centre seeks support for two major measures

The two proposals are expected to remain among the key political issues during the remaining part of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

The Centre is seeking support for legislation that would provide 33% reservation for women in legislatures from 2029. The proposed delimitation exercise could also increase the strength of the Lok Sabha to 816 seats.

The delimitation proposal has faced opposition from several parties, particularly in southern India.

Opponents have argued that states such as Tamil Nadu could be disadvantaged because they successfully implemented population-control measures and therefore have slower population growth.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday alleged that the proposed exercise could weaken Tamil Nadu's representation in Parliament and urged political parties across the country to oppose it.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, meanwhile, has denied reports that a special Parliament session from August 16 to 18 was being considered to pass the two measures. Consultations with political parties are continuing during the ongoing session.

Fresh speculation over SAD-BJP alliance

The SAD's support for the Centre's proposals has also intensified speculation about a possible political rapprochement between the BJP and Akali Dal in Punjab. Sukhbir Singh Badal met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament on Friday, bringing the former allies back into the political spotlight.

The BJP and SAD had shared a 24-year-old alliance before parting ways in 2020 over the now-repealed farm laws.

Asked about the possibility of the two parties joining hands again, Daljit Singh Cheema said only that the two leaders had met.

Reacting to comments by AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal about a possible BJP-SAD tie-up, Cheema said the remarks reflected the “fear of AAP”.

On whether an alliance was being discussed, Cheema said he would stick to the decisions taken by the party.

With the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections approaching, political attention is likely to remain focused on whether the renewed engagement between the SAD and BJP develops into a formal electoral understanding.

The high-level meeting comes at a time when political activity in Punjab has begun to intensify. For months, the BJP had maintained that they would contest the 2027 Assembly elections independently. BJP leaders had repeatedly asserted that the party was preparing to fight the elections on its own in Punjab.

However, Sukhbir Singh Badal's meeting with Prime Minister Modi has once again fuelled speculation that the two former allies could explore the possibility of reviving their alliance before the Punjab Assembly elections 2027.

While the official agenda of the meeting has not been disclosed, political observers believe several Punjab-specific issues could be discussed. These may include the state's law and order situation, concerns over recurring paper leak cases, the growing drug menace and other governance-related challenges affecting Punjab.

The meeting is also being closely watched for any political signals regarding the future relationship between the BJP and the Shiromani Akali Dal, which ended their decades-old alliance over the now-repealed farm laws.

Neither the Prime Minister's Office nor the Shiromani Akali Dal has issued an official statement on the discussions so far.

More details are expected after the meeting concludes.

The incident took place in the presence of Punjab Congress in-charge Bhupesh Baghel and once again highlighted the factional divide within the state unit ahead of the party's organisational drive.

Pro-Channi slogans interrupt Warring's speech

As Raja Warring began addressing the gathering, a section of party workers started raising slogans in support of Charanjit Singh Channi. Slogans such as "Channi Liyao, Punjab Bachao" and "Channi Liyao, Congress Bachao" echoed through the venue, briefly disrupting the programme.

Warring paused his speech and questioned those responsible for the sloganeering. Although he attempted to identify some of the workers, more supporters joined in and the chants continued inside the hall.

Senior Patiala leaders skip meeting

The programme also witnessed the absence of several senior Congress leaders from Patiala. Among those who did not attend was sitting Member of Parliament Dr. Dharamvir Gandhi, along with three other senior local leaders.

A former Congress MLA, who also stayed away from the event, said the party leadership should pay attention to the sentiments of grassroots workers.

According to him, workers are the real strength of the party and their voices should not be ignored in favour of individual leaders.

Also Read | India at Commonwealth Games: Soman Rana wins Gold, Praveen Chitravel takes Silver, Selva Prabhu claims Bronze

Meeting was part of organisational campaign

The Patiala programme was organised as part of the Congress' statewide campaign to strengthen its booth-level organisation before the next electoral battle.

Following the disruption, Raja Warring warned that strict disciplinary action would be taken against anyone found responsible for disturbing official party programmes and damaging the party's image.

Despite the warning, the slogan shouting continued for some time before the meeting proceeded.

The meeting is being held at the residence of Kapurthala MLA Rana Gurjit Singh in Chandigarh and has brought together leaders associated with former Punjab Chief Minister and Jalandhar MP Charanjit Singh Channi. The discussions are expected to play a significant role in determining the party's strategy and leadership dynamics in the state.

Before entering the meeting venue, Channi made a cryptic remark to reporters, saying, "Wait and watch which way the wind blows." His statement has fuelled speculation over the outcome of the talks and the future course of action by his camp.

Speaking to the media, Congress MLA Pargat Singh said Bhupesh Baghel would listen to the concerns of Punjab leaders before submitting a report to the party high command.

Host of the meeting, MLA Rana Gurjit Singh, said leaders who had contested the last Assembly elections had gathered to present their views before the party leadership.

He also questioned the timing of raids conducted at his business establishments, alleging that they coincided with the gathering of Congress legislators at his residence for the meeting.

Sources said a large number of Congress leaders reached the venue in what is being viewed as a show of strength by the Channi camp.

The meeting comes against the backdrop of mounting differences within the Punjab Congress over the party's leadership ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.

Leaders supporting Channi are understood to have reiterated their demand that he be projected as the Congress' chief ministerial face if the party leadership is unwilling to replace Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring.

According to sources, the Channi camp believes a clear chief ministerial candidate would strengthen the party's campaign and help consolidate support ahead of the Assembly polls.

Notably, Raja Warring is not attending the meeting. Earlier, he said there was no need for the state party chief to be present at every discussion and maintained that the Congress remained united despite internal consultations.

This is a developing story. More details are awaited as the meeting continues.

The meeting comes just three days after Baghel firmly dismissed speculation about any change in the state leadership, saying the party high command's decisions are not altered repeatedly.

Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring confirmed that Baghel had informed him about the scheduled interaction and said the party observer would hold separate discussions with the leaders concerned.

Also Read | Harcharan Singh Bhullar: CBI court frames corruption charges against suspended Punjab DIG, trial to begin on July 23

Senior leaders likely to attend

According to available information, the meeting is likely to be attended by Charanjit Singh Channi, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa and Rana Gurjit Singh, all of whom have so far not met Baghel during his ongoing Punjab visit.

When asked whether Channi's supporters had requested that Warring stay away from the meeting, the Punjab Congress chief said he had no information about any such demand.

Warring dismisses reports of internal rift

Responding to speculation that some leaders were unwilling to accept his continuation as Punjab Congress president, Raja Warring rejected the claim outright.

He challenged reports of dissent, asking which senior leader had publicly refused to accept his leadership. Referring to Channi, Randhawa, Aruna Chaudhary and Partap Singh Bajwa, Warring said none of them had made such a statement.

He also expressed confidence that the party leadership would soon be seen together.

"In a day or two, you will see all of us together," he said, adding that he held no bitterness towards any party colleague and believed the Congress remained united.

Baghel extends Punjab visit

Baghel, who is also the former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, arrived in Punjab earlier this week to assess the organisation's preparedness for the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections.

Originally scheduled for a five-day tour, he has now extended his visit by three more days to continue consultations with party leaders, legislators and office-bearers across the state.

Since arriving on Monday, he has held a series of meetings aimed at strengthening the organisation ahead of the Assembly elections due early next year.

Also Read | Govt brings high-alcohol medicines under Schedule H1; prescription now mandatory

Channi camp agrees to meet observer

Earlier this week, leaders considered close to Channi had stayed away from Baghel's meetings, reportedly because of dissatisfaction over the party's recent organisational appointments. However, on Thursday, the group softened its stand and agreed to present its concerns directly before Baghel.

Jalandhar Cantonment MLA Pargat Singh confirmed that the leaders would meet the AICC in-charge and place their views before him.

Channi is believed to be unhappy after the Congress decided to retain Raja Warring as Punjab Congress president while appointing him as chairman of the party's campaign committee.

Warring responds to Randhawa's remarks

When asked about comments made by senior leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, who had suggested that Warring should introspect, the Punjab Congress chief avoided any confrontation.

Warring described Randhawa as an elder brother and a respected senior leader, saying he did not believe Randhawa was upset with him and that he would speak to him personally.

Supriya Shrinate plays down factionalism

Senior Congress leader Supriya Shrinate, who addressed a joint press conference with Warring, dismissed concerns over internal divisions within the Punjab unit.

She said differences of opinion were natural in a democratic party and reflected the presence of multiple leaders rather than factionalism.

Baghel reiterates high command's stand

On Wednesday, Baghel had categorically ruled out any reconsideration of Raja Warring's appointment as Punjab Congress president. He remarked that once the party high command had taken a decision, it could not be changed repeatedly, dismissing suggestions of a leadership rethink.

Baghel also maintained that the Congress remained united in its objective of returning to power in Punjab and said the party respected every leader's contribution.

Unlike other political parties, he said, the Congress encouraged open discussions and valued differing opinions instead of functioning through one-way directives.

Background to the leadership row

On July 1, the Congress announced that Amrinder Singh Raja Warring would continue as the president of the Punjab Congress while appointing Charanjit Singh Channi as chairman of the party's campaign committee.

A few days later, Channi attended a meeting in Mohali along with several sitting and former MLAs, where leaders urged the party high command to reconsider the decision and appoint him as the state unit chief.

While acknowledging that differences of opinion existed, leaders, including Pargat Singh and Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, have repeatedly maintained that the Congress remains united and that its primary focus is to return to power in the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections.

The notice, issued by Punjab Congress Disciplinary Committee chairman Avtar Henry, directs Jalalpur to explain within three days his statements made in the media against Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal and Punjab in-charge Bhupesh Baghel. The party has warned that disciplinary proceedings may follow if a satisfactory reply is not submitted within the stipulated period.

Jalalpur had made the remarks while attending a meeting convened at former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi's residence in Morinda, where several Congress leaders gathered ahead of Baghel's visit to Punjab.

The disciplinary action comes against the backdrop of an open display of factionalism within the Punjab Congress.

Former Chief Minister and Jalandhar MP Charanjit Singh Channi stayed away from the meeting called by Bhupesh Baghel and instead held a separate gathering with his supporters at his Morinda residence. Following the meeting, Channi left for Delhi, where he is expected to meet the Congress high command. Leaders aligned with Channi also refrained from receiving Baghel upon his arrival, highlighting the widening divide within the state unit.

Political equations within the Punjab Congress continue to shift, with Channi reportedly receiving the backing of MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, six MLAs and newly appointed working president Sangat Singh Gilzian.

Meanwhile, state Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring has publicly received support from only one MP, Dr Amar Singh, while no MLA has openly endorsed his leadership so far.

The Congress leadership has deputed Bhupesh Baghel to Punjab for a five-day organisational tour aimed at addressing internal grievances and restoring unity.

Baghel said he would meet district Congress committees, newly constituted organisational bodies, Youth Congress representatives  and senior party leaders over the coming days before speaking publicly on the developments.

Responding to speculation over the Morinda meeting, Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring sought to dismiss reports of a major split.

He described the gathering at Channi's residence as a routine meeting of Congress leaders held to strengthen the organisation and urged the media not to exaggerate differences within the party.

According to Warring, discussions among senior leaders are ongoing and the Congress leadership remains committed to presenting a united front.

The meeting, which continued for several hours, was attended by nearly 24 sitting and former Congress MLAs, four former ministers, district leaders and hundreds of party workers. The gathering came days after the Congress high command decided to retain Amrinder Singh Raja Warring as president of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC), a move that had disappointed a section of the party leadership that was expecting Channi to be given the responsibility.

Following detailed discussions, the leaders decided to constitute a committee that will represent the concerns of Punjab Congress workers before the party's central leadership. They also authorised Channi to take future decisions on behalf of the group, while giving the Congress high command one week to address their concerns.

Among those present were former ministers Tripat Rajinder Singh Bajwa, Rana Gurjeet Singh, Sukhbinder Singh Sarkaria, Bharat Bhushan Ashu and OP Soni. Several former legislators, including Mohammad Sadique, Gurpreet Singh Kangar, Gurkirat Singh Kotli, Tarsem Singh Attari and Harminder Singh Gill, also attended the meeting. Balkaur Singh, father of late Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, was also present. However, senior Congress leaders Pargat Singh, Sukhpal Singh Khaira and former Assembly Speaker KP Rana were not part of the gathering.

Former Punjab Youth Congress president Barinder Singh Dhillon said the newly formed committee would place the concerns of party workers before the high command. According to him, many workers felt that their views had not been adequately reflected in the recent organisational decisions, and the committee would seek to ensure those concerns were heard.

Senior Congress leader Tripat Rajinder Singh Bajwa clarified that the meeting should not be viewed as a confrontation with the party leadership.

Channi chose not to address the media after the meeting, but his decision to remain silent has added to political speculation over the direction the party could take in the coming days.

What was expected to be a routine organisational reshuffle has instead snowballed into a test of the Congress high command's authority.

The strongest signal has come from former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi. Instead of quietly accepting his appointment as chairman of the party's campaign committee, Channi has chosen to demonstrate his political strength by convening an emergency meeting of his loyalists at his residence in Morinda.

The gathering is not merely a courtesy meeting. With sitting MPs, MLAs, former legislators and influential party leaders in attendance, it carries the unmistakable message that Channi believes he commands a support base substantial enough to challenge the party's leadership decisions.

Leaders close to Channi have openly argued that sidelining him from the state presidency could damage the Congress' electoral prospects, suggesting that his leadership is essential if the party hopes to return to power.

At the same time, another development has added to the unease within the Congress. Senior leader and Gurdaspur MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, who was made chairman of the party's core committee instead of being entrusted with the state leadership, reportedly travelled to Delhi to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Whether the meeting carries political significance or is being overinterpreted remains uncertain. However, in the current political climate, such developments inevitably fuel speculation about growing discontent and possible realignments.

At the same time, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa has, however, clarified that "The meeting was pre-scheduled for today in connection with my representation on the deteriorating law and order in the State of Punjab."

The larger issue for the Congress is not individual ambition; it is the recurring inability to manage competing centres of power.

For years, the party has struggled with factional politics in Punjab. Leadership disputes have repeatedly overshadowed organisational work, allowing rivals to capitalise on Congress' internal divisions. Instead of presenting a united alternative to the ruling establishment, the party once again finds itself consumed by questions over who should lead rather than how it intends to govern.

Retaining Raja Warring may have provided continuity, but it has also revived unresolved rivalries. If influential leaders feel overlooked despite their political standing, symbolic appointments may not be enough to contain resentment.

The optics are particularly damaging. Public displays of dissatisfaction, emergency strategy meetings and reports of senior leaders exploring conversations outside the party all weaken the Congress' claim of being ready for the 2027 electoral contest.

Political parties rarely suffer because disagreements exist; they suffer when disagreements become public demonstrations of competing authority. That appears to be the stage the Punjab Congress is entering.

The coming weeks will determine whether the high command can restore discipline and rebuild consensus or whether the current unrest develops into a wider organisational crisis.

For now, the Congress' biggest political challenge in Punjab does not appear to be defeating its opponents; it is convincing its own leaders that they remain part of the same team.

The strategy marks a significant departure from the party's 2022 campaign, which revolved largely around Arvind Kejriwal and the promise of bringing the much-publicised "Delhi model" to Punjab. At the time, Bhagwant Mann was projected as the chief ministerial candidate, but it was Kejriwal's image and political appeal that dominated the campaign narrative.

Today, however, AAP finds itself in a very different position.

After more than four years in power, the party can no longer rely on promises and political slogans. It must now answer difficult questions about governance, delivery and accountability. By projecting Mann as the sole face of the government and the 2027 campaign, AAP is effectively asking voters to judge its entire record through one individual.

That is where the risks begin.

The new slogan, "Punjab da eko naara, Bhagwant Mann dobara", may be aimed at showcasing confidence, but it also exposes the party's growing dependence on a single leader. Instead of highlighting a broader team, institutional achievements or a long-term vision for Punjab, AAP appears to be turning the election into a referendum on Mann himself.

This comes at a time when the Chief Minister is facing one of the most challenging phases of his political career.

The controversy surrounding the alleged sacrilege video and the sharp criticism from the Akal Takht have created a political storm that refuses to die down. Whether justified or not, the issue has damaged the government's narrative and given the Opposition a powerful political weapon.

The Shiromani Akali Dal, BJP and Congress have all found common ground in targeting Mann's leadership.

What is particularly striking is AAP's response. Instead of addressing concerns through wider engagement or course correction, the party has doubled down on projecting Mann even more aggressively through public outreach programmes, government events and social media campaigns.

The move raises an uncomfortable question: is AAP showcasing confidence in its Chief Minister, or does it simply lack an alternative political narrative?

The government's supporters often point to recruitment drives, infrastructure projects and welfare initiatives. However, critics argue that Punjab continues to struggle with pressing issues such as unemployment, drug abuse, agrarian distress, fiscal pressures and concerns over law and order. These are challenges that cannot be overshadowed indefinitely through political branding.

AAP also continues to battle a perception problem. Since coming to power, the party has repeatedly faced accusations that key decisions are influenced by its central leadership. Ironically, the current effort to establish Mann as an independent Punjabi leader reflects an acknowledgment that this perception still exists among sections of the electorate.

The bigger concern for AAP is that by concentrating its campaign around one individual, it leaves itself vulnerable. If voters are unhappy with the government's performance, there will be no buffer and no alternative face to absorb the political damage. Every criticism of governance will inevitably become a criticism of Bhagwant Mann.

The Opposition understands this reality. That is why its attacks are increasingly directed at Mann personally rather than at the AAP organisation. The strategy is simple: weaken the face, and the campaign weakens with it.

As Punjab moves closer to election season, AAP's decision to place all its political chips on Bhagwant Mann may prove either its greatest strength or its biggest miscalculation. For now, the party appears convinced that Mann remains its most valuable asset.

The real question is whether Punjab's voters still share that belief.

The development comes just days after Captain Amarinder Singh publicly indicated that he had not been consulted before the BJP leadership appointed Kewal Singh Dhillon as the party's Punjab unit president. It also follows remarks by former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, who suggested that the veteran leader was in touch with the Congress.

As per a report in The Tribune, he dismissed any possibility of a return to his former party. Captain Amarinder said the meeting with the BJP leadership had been planned for some time. He said he had sought an appointment with Shah and was given time immediately.

As per The Tribune, Captain Amarinder said discussions centred on Punjab and the BJP's future strategy in the state. According to him, the interaction focused on how the party could broaden its support base and strengthen its organisational presence.

When asked whether the talks involved possible alliances ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections, Captain Amarinder Singh said no such discussion took place.

The former chief minister also noted that he had not met the party's top leadership for some time and used the opportunity to discuss issues concerning Punjab in detail.

Speaking to reporters, Hooda described Captain Amarinder as a senior Congress leader and an old colleague, adding that the two share a long-standing association. His comments have triggered fresh debate over whether efforts are underway to bring the veteran Punjab leader back into the party he once led.

The speculation comes at a time when Capt Amarinder has repeatedly voiced dissatisfaction with the functioning of the BJP, the party he joined after parting ways with Congress in 2021.

Growing signs of discontent

In recent months, Captain Amarinder has publicly contrasted the working styles of Congress and the BJP. He has said that during his years in the Congress, the party leadership regularly sought his views on Punjab-related matters, whereas decisions in the BJP are often taken centrally without consulting state leaders.

The former CM has also pointed to what he described as a lack of personal outreach from BJP leaders. Captain Amarinder recently revealed that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had personally sent him birthday wishes and later conveyed condolences following the death of his cousin. According to him, no similar gesture came from BJP leaders.

His remarks have been viewed by many political observers as a sign of growing unease within the saffron party.

Differences over Punjab BJP leadership

Captain Amarinder Singh has also expressed reservations about the appointment of senior leader Sunil Jakhar’s successor and the broader leadership structure of the Punjab BJP. Earlier, he questioned the selection of party president Kewal Singh Dhillon, arguing that the leadership should have consulted experienced state leaders before taking such decisions.

He maintained that while Dhillon remained active in politics, his grassroots performance did not justify the expectations attached to the role.

Alliance question remains a point of friction

Another issue believed to be causing differences is the BJP's electoral strategy in Punjab. Amarinder has consistently advocated exploring an alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal to strengthen the opposition space in the state.

However, BJP leaders have repeatedly asserted that the party is preparing to contest all 117 Assembly seats on its own, leaving little room for alliance discussions at present.

BJP dismisses speculation

Responding to the debate, Punjab BJP spokesperson Pritpal Singh Baliawal played down Hooda’s remarks, saying that being in contact with someone does not automatically indicate political negotiations.

He noted that Hooda had merely stated that Amarinder remained in touch with Congress leaders and cautioned against reading too much into the comment.

Addressing a press conference in Chandigarh, Sukhbir Singh Badal said with the support of 51 Independent councillors, the total number of wards won under the SAD leadership had increased to 243. The party had originally secured victory in 192 wards on its own symbol.

The SAD chief also claimed that the party had secured a complete majority in nine municipal committees, compared to six won by the Congress and two by the BJP. The committees where the SAD secured a majority include Maluka, Kot Shamir, Bhagta Bhaika, Bhucho, Nathana, Lehra Mohabbat, Sangat, Kot Fatta and Rahon.

Sukhbir Singh Badal further stated that the SAD emerged as the leading party in terms of votes polled in several committees, including Faridkot, Mehraj, Majitha and Maur. He alleged that in some places, SAD candidates were declared defeated despite receiving the highest number of votes.

Citing an example from Zirakpur, he claimed that a SAD candidate was shown as having secured the highest votes in the Returning Officer’s certificate but was later declared defeated in favour of an AAP candidate. He also alleged similar irregularities in Malout, Muktsar and Kot Fatta.

Expressing satisfaction over the party’s performance, the SAD president said the party had performed better than the Congress despite facing political pressure and administrative hurdles. He alleged that the AAP government attempted to block SAD candidates by rejecting nomination papers and misusing police machinery during the elections.

“SAD contested 1,251 seats, nearly 300 fewer than the Congress, which fought 1,550 seats. Despite this, the Congress could win only around 150 more seats than SAD,” he said.

Sukhbir Singh Badal also accused the Bhagwant Mann-led government of political vendetta against SAD leaders and workers. Referring to the recent case registered against senior SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia, he termed the action politically motivated.

He alleged that while no action was taken against AAP leader Talbir Gill in a separate incident involving the release of a worker from police custody, false cases were being registered against Bikram Singh Majithia to target opposition leaders.

The SAD leader said public resentment against the AAP government was growing due to alleged repression and police action against Akali workers in places like Faridkot and Majitha. He asserted that the people of Punjab would give a strong response to the ruling party in the upcoming Assembly elections.

The decision was taken during a meeting of the Council of Ministers chaired by the Chief Minister in Chandigarh.

According to the Chief Minister’s Office, the Cabinet approved reducing the required experience for promotion from Election Kanungo to Election Tehsildar from 15 years to 12 years.

The amendment was made because seven posts of Election Tehsildar are lying vacant in the department. With the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls currently underway and Assembly elections approaching, the government said there is an urgent need to fill these posts to ensure smooth election-related work.

At present, no serving Election Kanungo qualifies for promotion under the existing rule requiring 15 years of experience. By reducing the experience requirement to 12 years, eligible officials will now be able to get promoted and help strengthen the department’s workforce.

Cabinet approves Water Resources Department report

In another important decision, the Cabinet also approved the Annual Administrative Report of the Department of Water Resources for the year 2025-26.

The report contains details related to the department’s administrative functioning and achievements during the financial year. The approval will help in proper documentation and review of the department’s work.

The meeting will be held at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge at 4 pm and is expected to be attended by five senior leaders from Punjab.

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, party general secretary K C Venugopal and Punjab affairs in-charge Bhupesh Baghel will also participate in the discussions.

The development comes shortly after the Punjab BJP announced its new state president, following which the Congress appears to have intensified its political activity in the state. Party sources indicated that organisational restructuring and leadership-related issues could come up for discussion during the meeting.

According to sources, the Congress leadership wants to consult senior state leaders before taking any major decision regarding the Punjab unit.

Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, former Punjab chief minister and MP Charanjit Singh Channi, MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa and senior leader Vijay Inder Singla are expected to attend the meeting.

The meeting also assumes significance as the results of the urban local bodies elections are scheduled to be declared on Friday.

Earlier, the Congress high command had held a similar meeting on January 22 at Kharge’s residence, where speculation regarding a leadership change in Punjab was dismissed. At that time, K C Venugopal had reportedly cautioned party leaders over factionalism and advised them against making public statements that could harm the party’s image.

Sources said the high command had also expressed displeasure earlier after around 30 Punjab Congress leaders sought a separate meeting with the central leadership over internal party matters.

The elections witnessed an overall voter turnout of 63.94%, registering a sharp decline of 9.59% compared to the 73.53% polling recorded during the 2021 civic body elections. Political observers believe lower voting in urban areas and major municipal corporation regions could significantly impact the final outcome.

Counting is underway for 7,555 candidates contesting across 1,896 wards in 9 Municipal Corporations, 76 Municipal Councils and 21 Nagar Panchayats across Punjab. A total of 79 candidates had already been elected unopposed before polling.

According to final figures released by the Election Commission, Nagar Panchayats recorded the highest turnout at 76.18%, while Municipal Corporation areas witnessed the lowest voting percentage at 59.91%. Municipal Councils registered 65.06% polling.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party has fielded the maximum number of candidates, followed by Congress, BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal. The election results are expected to provide a major political indication ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly polls.

Security has been tightened at counting centres after incidents of clashes, stone-pelting and tension were reported during polling in several districts.


FOLLOW LIVE UPDATES 

The controversy intensified when Bazigar, while speaking casually during the gathering, remarked that if there was any shortfall, “they would manage it by shutting the gates,” though he added that there would be no violence involved. The statement quickly drew criticism from opposition parties, who accused the ruling party of undermining democratic values.

Kulwant Singh Bazigar is the AAP MLA from the Shutrana Assembly constituency in Patiala district. Soon after the video gained attention, both Congress and the Shiromani Akali Dal launched attacks on the ruling party and the state government.

The Punjab Congress alleged that the state was witnessing politics driven by pressure tactics and misuse of power. The party questioned what kind of message such remarks from elected representatives would send to voters and demanded an immediate probe by the Election Commission.

Senior Akali leader Bikram Singh Majithia also criticised the AAP government, questioning why the party would need to talk about booth management if it was truly confident of public support. He accused AAP of trying to bring intimidation-based politics into Punjab.

In the video, Bazigar is also heard saying that he had learned such political tactics from opposition parties themselves. However, the MLA has not issued any official clarification on the matter so far. Reports said attempts were made to contact him, but he did not respond to calls.

Punjab’s civic elections will be held on May 26, with voting scheduled from 8 am to 5 pm. Counting of votes will take place on May 29. Elections will be conducted for eight municipal corporations, 76 municipal councils and 21 nagar panchayats across the state.