BJP Expected to Outperform Former Ally SAD in Punjab, Exit Poll Indicates

The anticipation is high in Punjab as the results of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections start to surface. The recent exit poll conducted by India Today-Axis My India sheds light on the potential performance of key political players in the region.

Former allies Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) have been closely watched as they campaigned independently in this election. Traditionally known for their longstanding alliance, the shift to separate campaigns has raised curiosity among voters.

According to the exit poll findings, the BJP is projected to witness a significant rise in its vote share compared to the 2019 elections. On the contrary, the SAD seems to be facing a downturn in its performance, with a dip in its anticipated vote share.

In Punjab, which has 13 Lok Sabha seats, the BJP and SAD have historically shared electoral responsibilities, with the SAD typically contesting a larger portion of seats. However, in this election, both parties have competed for all 13 seats, marking a departure from their usual strategy.

The exit poll data suggests that the BJP is likely to secure a vote share of 26 percent, a considerable increase from its 2019 performance when it garnered only nine percent of the votes. In contrast, the SAD is expected to receive a vote share of 20 percent, reflecting a decline from its 2019 numbers.

For the SAD, a party that held significant sway in Punjab politics in the past, the exit poll paints a challenging picture, projecting only two to three seats for the party. In contrast, the BJP is estimated to clinch two to four seats, indicating a strengthening position in the state.

With the exit poll results hinting at a potential shift in the political landscape of Punjab, all eyes are now on the actual election results, which are set to be announced on June 4. The outcome of this election could have far-reaching implications for the future trajectory of political parties in the state.