The Election Commission of India (ECI) has informed the Delhi High Court that a “grave and highly sensitive” objection continues to prevent the finalization of the registration of the proposed political party, Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De), due to concerns over India's sovereignty and integrity.
In an additional counter affidavit filed before the High Court, the ECI stated that the comprehensive background inquiry requested from the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Punjab remains pending despite reminders. The Commission confirmed it completed physical verification of the proposed party's premises and scrutinized documentation. However, following receipt of the sensitive objection on July 9, 2026, further investigation was required.
The objection was forwarded to the Punjab CEO on July 14, 2026, with instructions to conduct a thorough background inquiry and submit a detailed report, which has yet to be received.
The affidavit reiterated the ECI's position that party registration under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, is subject to statutory procedures and is not automatic.
Previously, the ECI received allegations that Waris Punjab De had separatist roots, raising doubts about its allegiance to India's sovereignty, unity and integrity. This prompted the Commission to order an extended background check.
The statutory process requires applicants to demonstrate commitment to the Constitution and uphold the nation's sovereignty, unity and integrity.
The dispute arose from Waris Punjab De's application for political party registration, submitted on January 22, 2025, and acknowledged by the ECI on February 6, 2025. After initial scrutiny, the Commission issued a deficiency letter on September 10, 2025, identifying flaws in the application, with 30 days granted to correct them. The applicant submitted amended documents only on January 16, 2026.
The CEO Punjab subsequently provided a positive verification report on April 27, 2026, regarding the premises and other relevant aspects. However, the sensitive objection received in July delayed the final decision, necessitating a further inquiry.
The ECI has rejected allegations of delay, attributing timing issues to the applicant's prolonged submission of corrected documents. It also opposed claims that the party might be prejudiced regarding allotment of a common election symbol for the upcoming Punjab Assembly elections, stating that such concerns cannot be addressed before completing the registration process.
The affidavit detailed that once the CEO Punjab's report is received, the ECI will proceed according to law. If positive, the applicant must publish public notices in two national and two local newspapers to invite objections over 30 days. After addressing any objections, a hearing will be provided before a final decision under Section 29A is made.
The ECI has requested the writ petition be disposed of, emphasizing that the registration cannot be concluded without completing the statutory inquiry.
Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De) is currently led by Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh, the party's sole MP. Singh announced the formal launch of the party in early 2025. Previously detained under the National Security Act, his detention was lifted in April, though he remains in jail on other charges.
The case was heard by Justice Saurabh Banerjee on November 4 and is listed for further consideration on January 11, 2027.