Chandigarh, Dec 8 (NationPress) The President of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), Sukhbir Badal, honored the legacy of five-time Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal on the occasion of his 98th birth anniversary, calling him a genuine nationalist and the voice of Punjab. He pledged to uphold his father's principles and never waver in defending the dignity of Punjab, its people, the Khalsa Panth, and the party.

During a religious gathering at Badal village commemorating the late leader, Sukhbir Badal remarked, “Badal Sahab was a true ‘Vikas Purush’, achieving more in his tenures than any other Chief Minister in the state’s history.”

“Look around; you can see his projects everywhere. He played a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of farmers and the impoverished through innovative initiatives. This is why people from various backgrounds and faiths felt Badal Sahab was one of them,” he added.

Reinforcing the commitment of the Akali Dal to continue Badal Sahab’s legacy, Sukhbir stated he is prepared to make any sacrifice necessary to fulfill this mission. He urged Punjabis to rally behind him, saying, “We can no longer afford to experiment. We must save Punjab. The SAD possesses the energy and willpower to steer the state out of its current turmoil and back onto the path of advancement and prosperity.”

During the event, a grand 12.5-foot statue of the late leader was unveiled in the village, amidst chants of “Sardar Parkash Singh Badal Amar Rahe” from his supporters and SAD members. The statue was crafted by Gurpreet Singh Dhuri.

A towering 70-foot flag of the Shiromani Akali Dal was also erected next to the statue.

Sukhbir Badal announced plans to establish a museum in the village, highlighting the late leader’s life, achievements, and philosophy, with the same architect who designed the Virasat-e-Khalsa being engaged for this project.

The event saw several leaders paying homage to Parkash Singh Badal. Abhey Singh Chautala, President of the Indian National Lok Dal, acknowledged Badal Sahab’s relentless efforts for the welfare of the underprivileged, suggesting that his birth anniversary be observed as “Sadbhavana Divas.”

BJP leaders Manpreet Singh Badal and Surjit Kumar Jyani reflected on how the late leader garnered widespread admiration, including from serving Prime Ministers, emphasizing that Parkash Singh Badal not only envisioned grand goals but also tirelessly worked to realize them for the betterment of Punjab.