Punjab Politics: Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa’s Party Joins Forces with Sukhbir Singh Badal’s Akali Dal

In a significant political development in Punjab, the Shiromani Akali Dal (Sanyukt) led by S Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa has merged with Sukhbir Singh Badal’s Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). The merger holds strategic importance as it comes ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, marking a move towards Panthic unity.

Sukhbir Singh Badal Thanks Dhindsa for Unification

Expressing gratitude on the social media platform X, Sukhbir Singh Badal acknowledged the strengthening of the Shiromani Akali Dal family through the merger. He thanked S Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa for responding to the call for Panthic unity, urging other Akali leaders who left the party to return.

Talks Lead to Reunion

The merger follows discussions between Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and Sukhbir Singh Badal, culminating in the decision to reunite the two factions of the Akali Dal. The talks gained momentum in December, with Badal seeking reconciliation for past sacrilege incidents during the Akali regime in 2015.

Past Expulsion and Formation of SAD (Sanyukt)

Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and his son, Parminder Singh Dhindsa, were expelled from the Shiromani Akali Dal in February 2020 for alleged anti-party activities. In response, they formed the Shiromani Akali Dal (Sanyukt), marking a period of division within the Akali Dal.

Relevance Amid SAD-BJP Reunion Buzz

The merger occurs amidst speculation about the reunion of the Shiromani Akali Dal with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The Akalis had withdrawn from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in 2020 over the now-repealed farm laws. Notably, the SAD (Sanyukt) had contested the 2022 Punjab Assembly polls in alliance with the BJP.

Positive Response and Panthic Unity

Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, addressing reporters, termed the merger as a collective responsibility to restore Punjab to its rightful track. Sukhbir Singh Badal echoed this sentiment, referring to the union as the merging of two families. Dhindsa’s assurance of heartfelt remorse for the sacrilege cases in 2015 played a pivotal role in the decision, according to sources.

Leadership Roles and Appeals for Return

Sukhbir Singh Badal urged Dhindsa to assume the role of Patron of the SAD, recognizing his seniority after the demise of former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal. He extended respect to all leaders of the SAD (Sanyukt) who joined the SAD, including Dhindsa’s son Parminder Dhindsa. Badal also issued appeals for other Akali leaders, such as Bibi Jagir Kaur, to rejoin the party for the collective strength and aspirations of Punjabis.