Punjab’s former Chief Minister and senior Punjab BJP leader Capt Amarinder Singh, it seems, is looking for making a comeback to active political engagement after months of relative silence. Capt Amarinder, on Sunday evening, held a critical meeting with the Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi to discuss several pressing issues concerning Punjab, including the ongoing farmers’ agitation, the state’s political landscape, and BJP’s leadership in the region.
The meeting has drawn significant attention, as it comes at a crucial juncture for the BJP in Punjab, where the party has struggled to make significant inroads despite multiple electoral efforts. Capt Amarinder took to social media to announce the meeting, stating that a detailed discussion was held regarding key challenges facing Punjab.
Among the key points on discussion table were farmers’ agitation and Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s hunger strike; leadership crisis in the state’s BJP unit; BJP’s declining performance in Punjab, among other issues.
The ongoing farmers' protest, referred to as Kisan Andolan 2.0, has been gaining momentum once again, with its one-year mark approaching. A significant focus of the meeting was the deteriorating situation surrounding farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike for 42 days. Dallewal’s health is reportedly critical, and the Government has faced mounting pressure to address farmers' demands.
Capt Amarinder’s role in mediating between the Central Government and the agitating farmers is being closely watched. Sources suggested that the BJP leadership wants to avoid the protest spiraling into a nationwide movement, with support from farmers in other states, just like it did in 2020-21 when the Centre had to withdraw three controversial farm laws.
With his vast political experience and connections in Punjab, Capt Amaridner could serve as a crucial intermediary to facilitate dialogue and resolution. Notably, during previous year-long agitation, Capt Amarinder was Punjab Chief Minister.
Following Sunil Jakhar’s resignation as Punjab BJP president after the Lok Sabha elections, the state BJP leadership is in flux. Jakhar not only stepped down but also distanced himself from active party activities. With only two years left for the Punjab Assembly elections, the BJP faces the dual challenge of rebuilding its leadership structure and strategizing for future electoral success.
Reports indicated that the BJP is exploring options to appoint a dynamic leader who can rejuvenate the party’s prospects in Punjab. Capt Amarinder’s meeting with Shah also reportedly touched upon potential leadership choices and strategies for strengthening the BJP’s organizational presence in the state.
At the same time, the BJP has faced consistent setbacks in Punjab, not just in Lok Sabha elections but also in municipal and panchayat polls. The party’s vote share has been steadily declining, both in urban and rural areas. Capt Amarinder and Shah are believed to have deliberated on ways to address these challenges, especially with assembly elections drawing closer.
This is not Capt Amarinder’s first public intervention in recent months. On October 25, Capt Amarinder had made a surprise visit to Khanna Mandi during the height of the paddy procurement crisis, where farmers had accused the BJP-led Central Government of negligence. His visit was seen as a damage control measure, reflecting his commitment to Punjab’s issues despite his recent political alignment with the BJP.
Additionally, Capt Amarinder’s family remains politically active. His wife, former Union Minister Preneet Kaur, and daughter Jai Inder Kaur have been visible in Punjab politics, with Jai Inder who is the state BJP Mahila Morcha head, playing a key role in BJP's Patiala municipal election campaign.
Can Capt Bridge the Gap Between Farmers and Govt?
As farmers’ protests continue to grow, Capt Amarinder’s role in bridging the gap between the BJP led Central Government and Punjab’s agricultural community could prove pivotal. His meeting with Shah is being interpreted as a step toward resolving the impasse and de-escalating tensions.
The BJP is aware of the need to prevent the agitation from escalating and garnering support from farmers in other states, as was seen during the 2020-2021 protests against the now-repealed farm laws. Capt Amarinder’s credibility as a former Congress leader and his deep understanding of Punjab’s socio-political fabric make him a valuable ally for the BJP in this regard.
Captain Amarinder’s re-emergence in active politics signaled his intent to play a prominent role in shaping Punjab’s political future. For the BJP, leveraging Capt Amarinder’s experience and political acumen could be a game-changer as it sought to overcome its challenges in the state.
