Rebel Akalis meet Akal Takht Jathedar

After dissolving the ‘SAD Sudhar Lehar’, a group of rebel Akalis today met Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh here today and pledged to unite for strengthening the SAD.

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Abiding by the Akal Takht’s orders, the rebels had officially dissolved their organisation on December 9 after completion of the ‘tankhah’ (religious punishment). The Takht had directed the rebel leaders to work towards strengthening the SAD from a single platform.

Gurpartap Singh Wadala, former chief of SAD Sudhar Lehar, said that the purpose of visiting the Jathedar was to tell him that the directions of the Akal Takht were being followed in true letter and spirit. “We all thanked the Jathedar for the decision that was pronounced on December 2 from the Akal Takht which was welcomed by the Sikhs. We wish that the other leaders too should follow it soon for the resurrection of SAD and for Panthic unity. The committee that has been constituted by the Akal Takht would start its operations soon,” he said. The Akal Takht had announced the formation of a seven-member committee under the leadership of SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami.

Wadala is a member on the panel which will oversee the induction of fresh members, delegates and conduct elections for new president and other office-bearers within six months. Other members include former SGPC president Kirpal Singh Badungar, Iqbal Singh Jhunda, Manpreet Singh Ayali, Santa Singh Umaidpuri and Satwant Kaur.

Former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra said that keeping aside the differences, it was the need of the hour for all the pro-Panthic organisations to join hands for the rejuvenation of SAD. “I personally thanked the Jathedar for giving an opportunity to come out clean on the frivolous allegations levelled against me in the case of attack on Golden Temple and the pardon granted to Dera Sirsa head,” he said.