Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini's Strategic Punjab Outreach: BJP's Calculated Move for 2027 Elections
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini's frequent visits to Punjab over the past several months have drawn significant attention from political rivals and within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) itself. From religious shrines and political conferences to bypoll campaigns and party inductions, Saini has become a familiar figure in Punjab's political landscape well ahead of the crucial 2027 Assembly elections.
Symbolism and Political Messaging
Saini's engagements in Punjab are characterized by a blend of cultural symbolism and sharp political messaging. Often seen wearing a turban during his visits—a gesture that has resonated with BJP leaders and sections of the public—the Haryana CM addresses gatherings in Punjabi, mixing it with Hindi and his distinctive Haryanvi accent. Recently, he has incorporated humour and satire into his speeches, particularly while targeting Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal.
Short video clips and reels of these remarks have gained traction on social media, amplifying his outreach digitally. This approach not only enhances his visibility but also positions him as a relatable leader connecting with Punjab's cultural ethos.
Key Visits and Engagements
Saini's Punjab itinerary has been extensive and strategically timed. On July 31, 2025, he visited Sunam to pay homage to Shaheed Udham Singh on his martyrdom day, interacting with residents, descendants of Udham Singh's family, and party workers. This visit held social and political significance, as Udham Singh belonged to the Kamboj community, which falls under the OBC category, aligning with Saini's own OBC background.
Over the past six months, Saini has attended multiple programmes across Punjab and campaigned during key bypolls, including Ludhiana West in June and Tarn Taran in November. Notable engagements include:
- Offering prayers at Gurdwara Sri Fatehgarh Sahib during the 'Shaheedi Sabha' on December 26, 2025, to mark Veer Bal Diwas.
- Addressing a gathering of Nihang Sikhs at Sant Kabir Kutir in Ludhiana district in January, urging youth to draw inspiration from Sikh values.
- Visiting Gurdwara Charan Kanwal Sahib in Machhiwara and Shri Mukteshwar Shiv Temple in Chahila, Ludhiana, on January 11.
- Speaking at the BJP's Maghi Mela political conference at Sri Muktsar Sahib on January 14, where he was the main speaker.
Targeting the AAP Government
Throughout his visits, Saini has consistently criticized the AAP-led government in Punjab. Using sharp remarks and satirical jibes, he has questioned governance, financial management, and law-and-order in the state, while projecting the BJP as a credible alternative. At a BJP induction programme in Chandigarh on January 16, where several prominent figures joined the party, Saini welcomed new entrants and claimed rising public support for the BJP in Punjab.
He has also highlighted the 'Haryana model' of governance, citing achievements such as providing MSP on 24 crops and fulfilling poll promises. Saini presents this as a template for Punjab under a potential "double-engine" BJP government, emphasizing inter-state cooperation and describing Punjab and Haryana as sharing a "blood relationship."
Political Reactions and Implications
Saini's outreach has drawn sharp reactions from rival parties. AAP state general secretary Baltej Pannu accused him of neglecting Haryana's affairs and dismissed his flood-related claims as false. Meanwhile, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has adopted a measured stance, with spokesperson Daljeet Singh Cheema noting that Saini's visits are an internal matter for the BJP, though he criticized AAP for alleged interference from Delhi leaders.
Political observers view Saini's sustained presence in Punjab as a key component of the BJP's long-term strategy to strengthen its base in a state where it has traditionally struggled. By combining cultural affinity with political critique, Saini aims to reshape the BJP's narrative ahead of the 2027 elections, positioning the party as a viable alternative to the AAP government.
As the 2027 Assembly elections approach, Nayab Singh Saini's calculated outreach in Punjab underscores the BJP's organizational focus on expanding its influence and challenging the incumbent administration through a blend of symbolism, governance promotion, and digital engagement.
