Archive · 26 Aug 2026
Punjab Akali Offshoots Intensify Poll Campaigns Without ECI Registration
Two political groups linked to the Akali tradition are preparing for Punjab’s next Assembly election.
They are holding political activities even though they are not officially registered yet.
They also do not have election symbols.
One group is called Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De).
It was started by the father of jailed MP Amritpal Singh.
The group has welcomed new members and announced some candidates.
Its lawyer says the Election Commission asked for more documents and answers.
The party says it explained that “Akali” means “timeless” and believes the commission was satisfied with that explanation.
Two Akali offshoots have increased political activity ahead of Punjab Assembly elections.
Neither group has secured formal registration or an election symbol from the ECI.
Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De) was launched at the Maghi Mela in January 2025.
The party has recruited new entrants and announced candidates despite its pending registration.
Its lawyer said the ECI delayed registration after seeking additional documents and clarifications.
- Who
- Two Akali offshoots, including Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De), and the Election Commission of India.
- What
- The offshoots have stepped up political activities while awaiting formal registration and election symbols.
- When
- Ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections; Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De) was launched in January 2025.
- Where
- Punjab, including the Maghi Mela in Sri Muktsar Sahib.
- Why
- The groups are expanding their political presence and preparing for the upcoming Assembly elections despite unresolved registration processes.
Party’s Explanation
Election Commission Process
Registration delay
Party’s Explanation
Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De) says it submitted additional documents and answered the ECI’s queries, but its registration remains unresolved well beyond the usual three-to-six-month process.
Election Commission Process
The ECI has continued examining the application and sought clarifications, including whether “Akali” has a religious connotation prohibited under election law.
Meaning of “Akali”
Party’s Explanation
The party told the ECI that “Akali” comes from “Akal,” meaning timeless, and said the commission appeared satisfied with the explanation.
Election Commission Process
The ECI’s query indicates that the name’s possible religious connotation was considered as part of the registration review.
- Election
- Punjab Assembly elections
- Groups involved
- Two Akali offshoots
- Registration status
- Neither group has received formal ECI registration, according to the article
- Election symbol
- Neither group has secured an election symbol
- Named party
- Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De)
- Launch date
- January 2025
- Launch venue
- Maghi Mela, Sri Muktsar Sahib
- Registration issue
- The ECI asked about the possible religious connotation of the word “Akali”