Sunil Jakhar Slams SAD, Urges Self-Introspection Amid Row Over Jathedar Removals
Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar on Sunday hit out at the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), urging the party to reflect on its own actions before accusing others. His sharp remarks came in response to recent statements by SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal, who alleged that previous Jathedars of the Sikh Takhts were influenced by the BJP-led central government, and that the SGPC had thwarted a conspiracy to dismantle the Akali Dal by removing them.
Badal, who was re-elected as SAD president just a day earlier, claimed the supposed conspiracy began after the party severed ties with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) over the now-repealed farm laws. Notably, the SGPC executive had removed the Jathedars of the Akal Takht and Takht Kesgarh Sahib on March 7, following the earlier sacking of Damdama Sahib Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh on February 10.
Jakhar, in a strongly worded statement, condemned SAD for what he termed an attempt to “undermine” the sanctity of the Akal Takht, saying it had caused immense hurt to Sikh sentiments worldwide. “Instead of accepting accountability, Akali leaders are making baseless allegations against the BJP to distract from their own failings,” he said.
He criticized the SAD for not taking responsibility for past missteps, adding that instead of seeking reconciliation, the party had further alienated itself with new controversies. Referring to the Akal Takht’s decision to revoke the honorary title of 'Fakhr-e-Qaum' (Pride of the Community) from former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal, Jakhar remarked, “A respectful appeal for reconsideration was always an option. But by passing a resolution opposing the decision, the SAD has openly defied the Akal Takht — a serious and inexcusable act.”
Reflecting on the SAD’s historical role, Jakhar said the party was once seen as the custodian of Panthic values and Punjab’s identity, but that image has now been severely dented.
Rejecting SAD’s accusations against the BJP as baseless, Jakhar concluded, “Before pointing fingers, the Akali Dal must answer the growing questions surrounding its conduct. Its leaders owe transparency and accountability to the people of Punjab.”
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