The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) is embroiled in a heated internal conflict following its poor performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections in Punjab. The party, led by Sukhbir Singh Badal, is facing criticism from within, with factions accusing each other of conspiring with the BJP and RSS to undermine the party.
Divided Loyalties and Allegations
The SAD, traditionally a dominant force in Punjab politics, is now witnessing a fracture within its ranks. The party's internal rebellion has led to a complex situation where accusations of ties with the BJP and RSS are being hurled between factions.
The SAD’s leadership has pointed fingers at the rebel group, known as "Sudhar Lehar," alleging that their actions are part of a larger conspiracy orchestrated in Nagpur, the headquarters of the RSS. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, chairman of the SAD’s disciplinary committee, accused the rebels of conspiring with the BJP and RSS, aiming to weaken the party from within.
On June 30, the SAD expelled eight rebel leaders, including notable figures like Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and Bibi Jagir Kaur, who had been critical of Sukhbir Singh Badal’s leadership. These leaders had called for a change in the party’s top brass, citing dissatisfaction with the current leadership.
Rebels’ Counterarguments
In response, the Sudhar Lehar faction dismissed these accusations, arguing that the SAD’s leadership is using the BJP and RSS as scapegoats to avoid addressing their internal issues. Charanjit Singh Brar, one of the expelled leaders, contended that both factions have had interactions with the BJP over the years and questioned why the current allegations are being used to distract from the party’s internal problems.
The Sudhar Lehar faction noted that discussions about alliances with the BJP had been ongoing but were disrupted by the farmers’ protests, which began in February.
BJP’s Response
The state BJP has criticized the SAD for its inability to address its internal issues. BJP vice-president Subhash Verma accused the Sukhbir-led SAD of trying to divert attention from its failures by blaming others. According to Verma, the SAD’s attempts to deflect responsibility for its shortcomings are both absurd and ineffective.
Looking Ahead
As the SAD grapples with its internal strife, the blame game involving the BJP and RSS is unlikely to resolve the underlying issues within the party. With both factions continuing to clash, the future of the SAD remains uncertain as it struggles to regain its footing in Punjab politics.
For more updates on the SAD’s internal conflict and its implications for Punjab politics, stay tuned to our blog.
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