As the political landscape in Punjab begins to take shape ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, Tarsem Singh, father of jailed Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh, has said that no other member of the family will contest elections, apart from Amritpal.
Tarsem Singh, who is currently serving as the acting president of Akali Dal Waris Punjab De, said the family has consciously decided to stay away from what he described as “parivarwad” or dynastic politics.
‘Only Amritpal Will Contest’
Tarsem said the family does not want to occupy multiple political positions and that its role should remain focused on supporting causes concerning Punjab and the Panth.
According to him, the decision is intended to ensure that political opportunities are not concentrated within one family and that deserving workers are given space to emerge as leaders.
Focus on Grassroots Workers and Youth
Explaining the party’s approach, Tarsem said dedicated grassroots workers, capable individuals and young people should be encouraged to take up leadership responsibilities.
He maintained that people who have worked for Punjab and Panthic causes should get an opportunity to come forward rather than political positions being limited to members of a single family.
The statement comes as Akali Dal Waris Punjab De looks to expand its organisational presence ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections, with greater participation of youth and grassroots workers being projected as part of its political strategy.
Family Members Supporting the Movement
Tarsem’s wife, Balwinder Kaur, has participated in programmes and campaigns seeking the release of Amritpal Singh and opposing the National Security Act proceedings against him. However, Tarsem said she does not hold any organisational position in the party.
Another family member, Amritpal’s uncle Harjit Singh, has remained in jail since the March 2023 crackdown involving the outfit led by Amritpal.
Tarsem added that other relatives, including his uncles, have supported the party and participated in its campaigns but have not taken up formal positions within the organisation.
Amritpal Remains the Family’s Political Face
Amritpal Singh, who is currently in jail, was elected as the MP from Khadoor Sahib in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Tarsem’s latest statement makes it clear that, for now, the family intends to keep its electoral participation centred around him.
With the 2027 Assembly elections approaching, the decision could also signal an attempt by Akali Dal Waris Punjab De to project itself as a platform for grassroots leadership rather than a family-led political outfit.
The party’s organisational expansion and its eventual electoral strategy are likely to become clearer as Punjab moves closer to the Assembly polls.