Sikh Body Summons Akali Dal Chief Sukhbir Singh Badal Over Rebels’ Allegations

Sukhbir Badal has been given a 15-day deadline to respond to a written explanation request from Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh. This request comes in light of accusations by rebel leaders of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) that Mr. Badal did not adequately represent the sentiments of the panth. The rebel leaders apologized for mistakes made during their party’s governance in the state from 2007 to 2017, with the apology presented to the Akal Takht Jathedar at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Following a meeting of the Panj Singh Sahibs, the Jathedar issued a statement acknowledging a complaint from senior SAD leaders at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, prompting the request for Mr. Badal’s explanation. Additionally, the Akal Takht has asked for clarification from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) regarding allegations of spending Rs 90 lakh on advertisements. The rebels highlighted four specific mistakes during the SAD’s previous regime, including failures to punish those responsible for the 2015 sacrilege incidents and the decision to pardon Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh.

The rebels also referenced controversial actions, such as the SGPC’s spending on advertisements justifying the decision to pardon the Dera chief and the lack of punishment for those involved in the 2015 sacrilege incidents. Prominent leaders who have raised concerns against Mr. Badal include former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra, former SGPC chief Bibi Jagir Kaur, former MLA Gurpartap Singh Wadala, former minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa, and party leader Sucha Singh Chhotepur. In response to the summons, Akali Dal spokesperson Arshdeep Singh Kler stated that they will adhere to the Akal Takht’s instructions, ensuring that everyone in the Akali Dal, including Sukhbir Singh Badal, will appear before the governing body.