Speculation is mounting that the Punjab assembly elections, currently scheduled for February 2027, could be advanced to November 2026. This potential shift is driven by concerns over a clash with two major national exercises early next year: the Kumbh Mela in Uttarakhand and the second phase of the national census.
According to sources, discussions within the Punjab unit of the Congress party have already taken place regarding the possibility of an early election. The party's central leadership is also aware of the scenario. The Kumbh Mela is set to begin on January 14, while the next phase of the census is expected to commence around the same period. Concerns that these large-scale events could disrupt the election schedule are believed to be driving considerations for advancing the polls.
With the possibility of a shortened preparation period, Congress has reportedly begun gearing up for a November election to avoid being caught unprepared. Sources indicated that the All India Congress Committee's (AICC) decision to form a committee under Ajay Maken late Thursday night to assess the Punjab Congress unit reflects the urgency of making any required organisational changes at the earliest.
The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has already launched its campaign preparations, while the BJP has also intensified its political activity in the state. There is also speculation within Congress circles that assembly elections in Uttarakhand, which are scheduled alongside Punjab and Uttar Pradesh in February-March 2027, could similarly be advanced.
With all major parties stepping up preparations, Punjab is emerging as the next major battleground on the national political calendar, setting the stage for a potentially intense three-cornered contest. AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal is keen to retain Punjab after the party lost power in Delhi, once considered one of its strongest bases. Congress, meanwhile, is eager to regain control of the state as it seeks to strengthen the narrative of a political resurgence following its victory in Kerala.
The Congress is particularly focused on defeating AAP, as it believes such a result would simplify political equations both in public perception and within the Opposition camp, where several INDIA bloc partners are seen as sympathetic to Kejriwal.
The BJP, for its part, is attempting to expand its footprint in a state where it remains a marginal player. Senior BJP leaders are reportedly keen to increase the party's visibility ahead of the elections. There is also renewed speculation about a possible alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), which has seen its influence diminish in recent years and is looking to use the election as an opportunity to signal a political revival.
Sources said Congress is unlikely to replace its Punjab leadership at this stage but may strengthen the top structure by bringing in key leaders to improve cohesion within the faction-ridden state unit. Party leaders believe there is insufficient time for a new state chief to take charge and establish coordination across the organisation before a potentially advanced election.
Instead, the Ajay Maken committee is expected to focus on organisational adjustments. Sources indicated that it may recommend the inclusion of leaders from key social groups, particularly Dalit and Hindu communities, in election-related committees that traditionally engage target voter groups and help project future leadership within the party.
