How six major deras to influence Punjab elections in 68 Assembly constituencies 

There are six major deras in Punjab including Dera Sacha Sauda, Radha Soami Satsang Beas,Noormahal Dera (Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan), Sant Nirankari Mission, Namdhari Sect and Dera Sachkhand Ballan. These deras influence 68 Assembly constituencies during elections. 

Punjab has been greatly influenced by Sikhism which is based on the principles of secular-religious doctrine (Miri Piri) which says religion and politics are bound together.

Besides Sikhism, Punjab is also known for various religious sects called Deras which are often called the poor cousins of institutionalised religion.