Sukhbir Singh Badal has stepped down as the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), marking a significant leadership change within the party. His resignation was announced by senior party leader Daljit Singh Cheema via a post on X (formerly Twitter) and confirmed by news agency PTI.
A New Chapter for SAD
Cheema revealed that Badal submitted his resignation to the party’s working committee on Saturday, aiming to “pave the way for the election of a new president.” In his resignation, Badal expressed gratitude to party leaders and workers for their trust and support during his tenure.
This decision comes amid internal challenges and growing calls for leadership change following SAD’s poor performance in the Lok Sabha elections. Several leaders, including Parminder Singh Dhindsa and Bibi Jagir Kaur, had publicly demanded Badal’s resignation, citing the party’s weakened state under his leadership.
Religious Misconduct Allegations
Badal’s resignation also follows his request for Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh to pronounce punishment for charges of religious misconduct. Declared “tankhaiya” (guilty of religious misconduct) for alleged mistakes committed during the SAD-led government (2007-2017), Badal urged the Jathedar to expedite his judgment.
Internal Dissolution and Reorganization
In July, SAD dissolved its core committee with plans for reorganization. Cheema had earlier stated that the reorganization would strengthen the party ahead of upcoming bye-elections. The working committee had authorized Badal to oversee this process, but his resignation now shifts the focus to electing new leadership.
Reactions to Badal’s Resignation
Former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra welcomed the resignation, stating that it opens a path to rejuvenate SAD’s power and appeal. He emphasized the need for the Akali Dal to strengthen amidst Punjab’s socio-economic challenges.
Daljit Singh Cheema described the resignation as a democratic move, noting that elections for the president’s post are held every five years, and the last election took place in December 2019.
However, the resignation has not come without mixed reactions. While some leaders expressed disappointment over the party’s struggles under Badal’s leadership, others reaffirmed their trust in him. The party had previously posted on X, emphasizing faith in Badal and urging unity against external conspiracies.
Looking Ahead
SAD now faces the critical task of electing a new leader who can rebuild the party and address the challenges posed by declining support. The decision comes as the party prepares for future electoral battles, seeking to reinvigorate its position in Punjab’s political landscape.
Sources By Agencies
