Saptrishi Soni:
Sukhbir Singh Badal, former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab and a central figure in Punjab politics, has been unanimously re-elected as the President of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). The decision, announced during a party delegates’ meeting at Teja Singh Samundari Hall, marks a significant moment in SAD’s journey, as Badal attempts to revive the party amid internal dissent, external challenges, and a deeply altered political landscape.
This re-election comes at a time when Sukhbir Badal has been facing considerable political and religious turbulence. Recently declared “Tankhiya” (guilty of religious misconduct) by the Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of Sikh authority, Sukhbir was under intense scrutiny from both religious institutions and within the SAD’s own senior leadership. His leadership has also been repeatedly questioned following the party’s electoral setbacks and waning influence, particularly after the fallout from the controversial 2015 sacrilege incidents and SAD’s former alliance with the BJP.
A Mandate of Confidence Amid Challenges
Despite the turbulent backdrop, Sukhbir’s re-election was uncontested. His nomination was proposed by SAD Working President Balwinder Singh Bhunder and seconded by senior leader Paramjit Singh Sarna. With no alternative nominations, Gulzar Singh Ranike, the appointed observer for the election, officially declared him the party’s president once again.
The unanimous support reflects a renewed mandate from the party’s core leadership, who appear to be banking on Sukhbir’s experience, legacy, and organisational control to guide the party through a period of realignment and rebuilding.
A Quest for Revival and Relevance
Sukhbir Badal’s return as party president is not just symbolic—it signals the beginning of another phase of internal consolidation and strategic repositioning for SAD. The party, once a formidable force in Punjab politics, has struggled to retain its footing in the post-2017 era, especially with the rise of AAP and increasing inroads made by the Congress and BJP.
Sukhbir’s challenge now lies in reconnecting with the rural Sikh base, rejuvenating the party’s cadre structure, and repositioning SAD as a credible and independent voice in Punjab politics, untainted by past controversies. This will also include a recalibrated narrative around Panthic values, development, and regional autonomy.
A Fragile Unity within Party Ranks
While the re-election was uncontested, it masks simmering tensions within the party. Several senior leaders have publicly or privately voiced dissatisfaction with Sukhbir’s leadership style and strategic decisions. The absence of a challenger in the presidential race may speak more to internal discipline and centralised control rather than absolute consensus.
However, insiders suggest that this may be part of a larger strategy to present a unified front ahead of future electoral battles, including the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. The Akali Dal’s success going forward may well depend on whether Sukhbir Badal can effectively balance tradition with reform and healing rifts within both the political and religious spheres of Sikh leadership.
Looking Ahead
Sukhbir Singh Badal’s third consecutive term as SAD president is a calculated gamble—both for him and for the party. It’s a chance to reassert leadership at a time of ideological and electoral crisis, and to forge a new path forward while still being tethered to a legacy that has come under fire.
Whether this tenure will mark a political revival or another chapter of challenges remains to be seen. But for now, the Shiromani Akali Dal has thrown its weight behind a familiar face—one who carries both the burdens of the past and the hopes of a potential resurgence.
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