Akali Dal factions push for Punjab-centric politics, Panthic unity at Holla Mohalla rallies

The splinter factions of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) held separate political rallies at Anandpur Sahib on the eve of Holla Mohalla, emphasising Panthic unity and Punjab-centric politics ahead of the 2027 Assembly election. Leaders from SAD (Punar Surjit) and SAD (Amritsar) urged people to support Panthic and regional forces in the upcoming poll.

SAD (Badal), however, didn’t hold any rally, with its president Sukhbir Singh Badal visiting Anandpur Sahib to pay obeisance at Takht Sri Keshgarh without senior party leaders present.

SAD (Punar Surjit) held an impressive rally along the Anandpur Sahib-Kiratpur Sahib highway, attended by senior party leaders and supporters from across the region. Former MP and party general secretary Prem Singh Chandumajra launched a sharp attack on the ruling AAP government, alleging that Punjab was being “ruled by outsiders” with no real interest in the state’s welfare. “They are plundering the state for their own gains. It’s time the people of Punjab take the reins of power into their own hands,” Chandumajra said.

He also accused the state government of compromising Punjab’s interests on the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) issue by allowing central forces deployment. Referring to Sikh prisoners who completed their sentences but remain incarcerated, he said no one cared about the “Bandhi Singhs” languishing in jails.

The Punar Surjit faction passed resolutions at the rally, including reaffirming commitment to the Anandpur Sahib Resolution, which calls for justice against alleged injustices faced by Sikhs since 1947. They demanded immediate SGPC election, citing irregularities in gurdwara management. Plans were announced to launch a mass movement for fresh poll.

The faction also warned the state government against “fake police encounters” and planned to approach the Central Human Rights Commission over alleged excesses. They questioned Sikh Gurdwara Judicial Commission’s impartiality and demanded new, independent members.

The resolutions urged the Centre to address issues like Chandigarh, Panjab University, BBMB, and greater state rights, and demanded royalty for Punjab’s river waters. The Akali Dal faction pledged to restore Panthic institutions’ dignity and carry its campaign to every village and household in Punjab.