Explained: Why PM Modi's July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly Elections

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's July 17 visit to Punjab comes at a crucial political moment, with Assembly elections approaching and the BJP stepping up its efforts to expand its footprint in the state. Since parting ways with the Shiromani Akali Dal after the farm laws controversy, the BJP has been working to build an independent political identity while reaching out directly to the Sikh community.From the Kartarpur Corridor and Veer Bal Diwas to preserving Sikh heritage and engaging with the global Sikh diaspora, the Modi government has highlighted several initiatives aimed at strengthening ties with Sikh voters. But can this long-term outreach finally translate into electoral gains in one of the BJP's toughest political battlegrounds? Here's why Punjab has become a key focus for the BJP ahead of the Assembly elections.