The annual Maghi Mela in Sri Muktsar Sahib is set to transform into a major political battleground this year, with key parties using the religious gathering to signal their strategies for the crucial Punjab Assembly elections slated for February 2027. For the first time, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will host its own independent political conference at the fair on January 14, 2026, marking a significant shift after its long alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) ended in 2020.
Political Conferences Return to the Forefront
The Maghi Mela, which honors Sikh martyrs of the 1705 Battle of Khidrana, has historically been a venue for political mobilization. This year's edition witnesses a notable churn. The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is making a comeback to the Mela's political circuit after nearly a decade, while the SAD is holding its traditional event with renewed vigor. The Congress party, however, has opted out, citing adherence to an Akal Takht directive against politicizing martyrdom-associated Melas.
BJP's state president, Sunil Jakhar, confirmed the party's plans, stating the conference aims to showcase the BJP's "natural progression in Punjab" and its respect for Sikh religious sentiments. He emphasized that the party's focus has expanded beyond urban centers, claiming it has reached every village. The conference's messaging, according to Jakhar, will center on Punjabiyat, restoring the state's glory, and addressing issues of law and order, economic debt, and social harmony.
Parties Jostle for Early Advantage
Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of the SAD, has been conducting preparatory meetings in the Malwa region. He asserted that his party's conference would demonstrate a "massive show of support" and "set the tone for the SAD's success in the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections." The SAD feels encouraged by its performance in recent local body polls, where it secured majorities in three Zila Parishads.
Meanwhile, the AAP is planning a significant conference on Kotkapura Road. Muktsar MLA Jagdeep Singh Kaka Brar confirmed that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will attend, and an invitation has been extended to national convener Arvind Kejriwal. Brar stated the event is an opportunity to highlight the state government's work over the past four years. The AAP's presence gains added context as CM Mann has been summoned by the Akal Takht Jathedar on January 15 for allegedly "displaying an anti-Sikh mentality." There is speculation the party may make election-related announcements from the Mela stage.
A Depoliticization Effort Fades
The intense political activity marks a revival of the Mela's political character, despite attempts since 2018 to depoliticize the religious festival. The timing is critical because the Model Code of Conduct for the 2027 elections may prohibit such events at next year's Maghi Mela, making the 2026 edition a prime opportunity for parties to connect with the masses.
Other factions like the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) led by Simranjit Singh Mann and the Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De) led by MP Amritpal Singh will also hold their conferences. The latter was actually launched from the Maghi Mela last year. With multiple parties converging, the 2026 Maghi Mela is poised to be a key barometer of Punjab's political climate as the state begins its long march towards the 2027 polls.
