SAD-BJP alliance intact, says Jha

Ruchika M Khanna

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, September 9

Putting all speculation of a split between the Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP to rest, the national vice-president of the BJP and party’s in charge of Punjab affairs, Prabhat Jha, said the alliance between the two parties was the “strength for the nation”.

On his first visit to Punjab, after being appointed in charge of party affairs in the state, Jha said though the party would continue to expand its footprints in Punjab, there would be no impact on the alliance.

“We have launched a membership drive and are getting a good response. But the alliance with the Akali Dal is intact as they are the longest standing ally of the BJP,” he said.

Talking to The Tribune, after overseeing the arrangements for the PM’s visit here scheduled for September 11, Jha said:“We are not biased against Punjab and want its overall development.”