Ex-Congress Leader Emerges As Leading Choice For BJP Punjab Unit Role

Kewal Singh Dhillon, a former Congress leader who joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2022, has been appointed as the new president of the Punjab BJP unit, marking a significant organisational shift ahead of future electoral battles in the politically crucial state. The appointment makes him the first Jat Sikh to lead the party’s state unit.

Dhillon, a 76-year-old former MLA from Barnala, replaces outgoing state president Sunil Jakhar, whose three-year term concludes in July. His elevation comes amid the BJP’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in Punjab, where it has historically struggled to expand beyond limited electoral pockets.

In his first reaction after the appointment, Dhillon said the party aims to make Punjab the “No. 1 state in all areas” and expressed confidence that the BJP would eventually form a government in the state. His comments reflect the party’s renewed ambition to expand its footprint in a region dominated by regional and agrarian political forces.

Also Read: Punjab BJP Accuses AAP Of Violence After Alleged Attack On Leaders

Within the party, Dhillon’s selection is seen as part of a deliberate strategy to project a strong Sikh leadership face, particularly from the Malwa region, which remains the most politically influential belt in Punjab. The Malwa region alone accounts for a majority of Assembly seats, making it central to any party’s electoral prospects in the state.

Party insiders said senior leaders including BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh and other organisational stakeholders supported Dhillon’s appointment. The decision is also viewed as an attempt to balance representation between Sikh leadership and organisational requirements ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.

Other contenders for the post reportedly included former state president Ashwani Sharma, Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu, former Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, and senior leader Manpreet Singh Badal. However, party sources indicated that Dhillon’s regional base, community identity and grassroots connect ultimately made him the preferred choice for the leadership role. The appointment is being closely watched as the BJP attempts to restructure its state strategy in Punjab, where political competition remains intense and voter alignments continue to evolve.

Also Read: BJP Leaders Seek Case Against Bhagwant Mann Over Punjab Blasts Comment