Even from behind bars, Amritpal Singh’s influence is resurfacing across Punjab as the state gears up for assembly elections. The rise of Waris Punjab De and the lingering weaknesses of the Akali Dal are examined in detail.
Key Takeaways
- Amritpal Singh’s influence resurfaces
- Waris Punjab De lacks solid organization
- Akali Dal shows signs of recovery
Despite being confined in Dibrugarh Central Jail in Assam since April 2023, the political shadow of controversial Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh looms large over Punjab, especially as the next Assembly elections approach.
His party, Shiromani Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De), recently halted parts of Chandigarh after breaching police barricades to march toward Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s residence, demanding Amritpal’s release and that of other “Sikh political prisoners.”
Historical Background
Punjab’s political history shows a pattern: whenever the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) fails to channel Sikh aspirations, new panthic formations emerge, often rallying around a charismatic leader or a specific grievance, only to fizzle out once the emotional surge wanes.
Amritpal’s personal charisma translated into a remarkable 2024 Lok Sabha win from jail, securing Khadoor Sahib by nearly two lakh votes. Yet his party’s performance in the 2025 Tarn Taran by‑poll—finishing a distant third—exposed the limits of his appeal without a ballot presence.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the resurgence of Amritpal’s narrative, despite his incarceration, highlights a persistent vacuum in Punjab’s mainstream politics, which younger voters are eager to fill while older generations remain wary of past turbulence.
"Amritpal’s popularity stems more from social discontent than a concrete political platform," said a veteran political analyst.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Is Amritpal Singh’s release from jail likely?
Answer: No official statement has been made yet, but his supporters continue to demand his freedom.
Question 2: What is Waris Punjab De’s strategy moving forward?
Answer: The party is seeking to build a grassroots network and attract younger voters to solidify its political footing.