Akali Dal to Contest Civic Elections on Party Symbol in Punjab

Shiromani Akali Dal on Friday announced that it will contest the upcoming elections to 102 Nagar Councils and nine Municipal Corporations in Punjab using the party’s official symbol. The decision was taken during a meeting attended by the party’s halka incharges and district presidents under the leadership of party chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, as the regional party prepares to strengthen its political presence in urban local bodies across the state.

The meeting focused on organisational strategy and preparations for the civic body elections, which are expected to become a significant political test for major parties in Punjab. Party leaders reportedly discussed candidate selection, local coordination, and campaign planning while emphasising the importance of contesting under the Akali Dal symbol to reinforce the party’s identity among urban voters following recent electoral setbacks.

Apart from electoral matters, the meeting also strongly criticised the implementation of the anti-sacrilege law introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab. SAD leaders alleged that custodians of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, including granthis and gurdwara management committees, were being unfairly targeted under the provisions of the law. The party argued that those responsible for sacrilege should face strict punishment, but religious caretakers should not be subjected to harassment or prosecution without justification.

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Party representatives maintained that the Shiromani Akali Dal has consistently supported stringent action in cases involving disrespect toward Sikh religious scriptures and institutions. However, they warned that implementation of the new legislation must not create fear among religious functionaries or interfere with the functioning of gurdwaras and related bodies. Leaders at the meeting expressed concern that the law could potentially lead to misuse if applied without proper safeguards and accountability.

The civic elections are expected to carry political significance for Punjab’s major parties, especially as regional and national players attempt to expand their influence in municipal governance. For the Shiromani Akali Dal, the polls represent an opportunity to regain ground after facing challenges in recent Assembly and parliamentary elections. The party has been attempting to rebuild its organisational structure and reconnect with its traditional support base across both rural and urban regions of Punjab.

Sukhbir Singh Badal is understood to have urged party workers and district leaders to begin preparations immediately and maintain strong grassroots engagement ahead of the elections. Political observers believe the municipal contests could offer insight into the current political mood in Punjab and indicate whether the Akali Dal is succeeding in reviving its position against rivals such as the Aam Aadmi Party, the Congress, and the Bharatiya Janata Party in the state.

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