Did Harpeet Singh Violate the Akal Takht's Edict?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a bold statement, Sukhbir Badal claims Giani Harpeet Singh has defied the Akal Takht's directive against factionalism within the party. This controversy raises questions about loyalty, political alliances, and the future of the Shiromani Akali Dal. Explore the implications of this power struggle and its impact on Punjab politics.
Key Takeaways
- Sukhbir Badal claims Giani Harpeet Singh defied Akal Takht's edict.
- The election of Harpeet Singh as president of a breakaway faction raises questions about party unity.
- Badal warns of a significant land acquisition affecting Punjab farmers.
- Concerns arise over the influence of anti-Sikh and anti-Punjab elements.
- The political landscape in Punjab is witnessing increasing tensions.
Patiala, Aug 11 (NationPress) Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Badal on Monday claimed that Giani Harpeet Singh disregarded the Akal Takht's edict from December 2024, which explicitly prohibited the establishment of factions intended to undermine the party.
The former acting Jathedar of Akal Takht, Giani Harpreet Singh, was elected as the President of the SAD's breakaway faction by a five-member committee established by the Akal Takht during elections held in Amritsar.
In reaction to this election, Badal stated: "It is widely recognized that Harpreet Singh has conspired with anti-Sikh and anti-Punjab Central agencies to fragment and diminish the Khalsa Panth, Punjab, and the Akali Dal alongside disgruntled elements."
"Everyone witnessed how this conspiracy unfolded even after I expressed my respect to Sri Akal Takht Sahib and accepted full accountability for any mistakes made during the Akali government. My complete submission to Sri Akal Takht Sahib meant nothing to him," he remarked while addressing the party’s demonstration against the state government's ‘land grabbing scheme’ here.
Emphasizing that he wished to avoid discussing the actions of Giani Harpreet Singh and his local supporters, such as Prem Singh Chandumajra and Surjit Singh Rakhra, he stated that he felt compelled to reveal the truth to the Punjabi population, saying: "Giani Harpreet summoned me along with the Akali leadership as part of a scheme aimed at expelling me from the ‘panth’. A fabricated complaint was also created to carry out this plan."
Criticizing the AAP government, Badal proclaimed that his SAD would not permit the acquisition of even a single inch of the 65,000 acres of land earmarked for acquisition by the government. He reiterated that any land forcibly taken would be returned to its owners when the SAD regains power in 2027.
Moreover, he cautioned farmers that AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, who has taken control of the state government and has made a Rs 30,000-crore agreement with builders in Delhi for the current acquisition, is merely gauging the situation and plans to seize another one lakh acres of land if not halted right away.
"This is merely the beginning of their land grab campaign. They intend to acquire an additional one lakh acres if they are not stopped immediately," he asserted.
Point of View
The ongoing conflict within the Shiromani Akali Dal represents a significant moment in Punjab's political landscape. It illustrates the challenges faced by traditional parties in maintaining unity amid external pressures and internal dissent. The outcome of this power struggle could have lasting implications for the region's governance and its political future.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Akal Takht's edict regarding factions?
The Akal Takht's edict from December 2024 explicitly prohibits the formation of breakaway factions within the Shiromani Akali Dal to prevent the weakening of the party.
Who is Giani Harpeet Singh?
Giani Harpeet Singh is the former acting Jathedar of Akal Takht and was recently elected as the President of the breakaway faction of the Shiromani Akali Dal.
What are the implications of Badal's claims?
Sukhbir Badal's claims suggest a significant internal conflict within the SAD, which could impact the party's cohesion and its political influence in Punjab.
What land acquisition is being discussed?
The land acquisition in question involves approximately 65,000 acres that the state government plans to acquire, which Badal's SAD opposes.
How does this situation affect Punjab farmers?
The ongoing conflict and land acquisition plans could adversely affect farmers in Punjab, leading to concerns about land ownership and agricultural rights.
