Nawanshehar (Asian independent) (Jatinder Pal Singh Kaler ): A major political stir erupted in the Balachaur assembly constituency when long-time active political leader and social worker associated with the Shiromani Akali Dal (Badal), Ashok Nanowal, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party along with his associates and supporters. Nanowal’s decision has created a buzz in Balachaur’s political atmosphere and is seen as a major political jolt to the Akali Dal, coming ahead of SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal’s massive rally scheduled in Balachaur on September 12. Ashok Nanowal had been associated with the Shiromani Akali Dal for a long time and remained fully active in party activities. He was known for standing by the party even during difficult times and enthusiastically participating in political programs. Whenever rallies, meetings, or other political gatherings were organized by the Akali Dal, Nanowal reached there in large numbers along with his
associates and supporters. On many occasions, a large convoy of vehicles accompanied him, establishing his identity as an active party worker within the organization. Alongside political activities, Ashok Nanowal has long been active in social service. Due to his personal contacts with local residents and participation in various social activities, he enjoys a wide circle of recognition in the area. By staying connected with the people and through his social service work, he carved out a distinct identity for himself. Ashok Nanowal also contested the Zilla Parishad election from the Pozewal zone. During this election, he faced defeat by a very narrow margin of votes against the candidate belonging to the ruling party. Despite this, there was no decline in his political activities, and he continued to remain active among the public alongside his supporters. Following this, Ashok Nanowal staked his claim for the Shiromani Akali Dal ticket from the Balachaur assembly constituency. Regarding the ticket issue, he held meetings with the party’s senior leadership and reportedly met Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal multiple times. However, despite this, he was not awarded the party ticket. After failing to secure the ticket, Ashok Nanowal expressed his dissatisfaction with the party’s internal system. He stated that dedicated workers who labor for the party over long periods, stand by it through every difficult time, and turn up in massive numbers along with their associates at the party’s call, do not receive recognition commensurate with their hard work and loyalty. Questioning the party’s system, he remarked that a lack of appreciation for workers’ efforts breeds frustration among frontline workers. Against this background, Ashok Nanowal decided to part ways with the Shiromani Akali Dal and join the Bharatiya Janata Party. His decision to join the BJP came to light during a meeting with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in Chandigarh. Most importantly, Nanowal did not join the BJP alone; a large number of associates and supporters also joined the party along with him. Around 100 leaders embrace BJP alongside Nanowal At the time of Ashok Nanowal joining the BJP, former Zilla Parishad member Sarwan Meelu Nighi , Joginder Singh Attwal, Nirbhay Singh Thadin, Bahadur Singh Birral Paili, Yograj Panch Karimpur, Jassi (Shivalik Industries), Block Samiti member Gurwinder Gifty, Channi Chandpur Rurki, and around 100 other leaders and associates also joined the BJP. The simultaneous joining of a large number of leaders and supporters has further intensified political discussions in the Balachaur constituency. The timing of Nanowal’s departure from the Akali Dal also holds special political significance. A massive “Punjab Bachao Rally” is being organized by the Shiromani Akali Dal in Balachaur on September 12 under the leadership of Sukhbir Singh Badal. At such a time, the entry of long-time active party leader Ashok Nanowal and his supporters into the BJP has become a major talking point for the Akali Dal. Political circles are now discussing how the transition of Ashok Nanowal along with a large number of leaders and supporters to the BJP will impact the future political landscape of Balachaur. Nanowal’s long Akali background, experience of contesting the Zilla Parishad election, social activities, local connections, and the joining of around 100 leaders with him have made this a center of political attention. This political shift by Ashok Nanowal has also sparked discussions about new political equations forming in Balachaur. While the actual impact of this political decision will unfold with time, Ashok Nanowal’s separation from the Akali Dal and joining the BJP alongside a large number of supporters is currently being talked about as a major political event in Balachaur’s politics.
