Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) is finding itself embroiled in a storm of dissent following its decision to deny a ticket to a member of the Dhindsa family in their bastion — Sangrur — for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. The unexpected move has triggered widespread discontent among SAD stalwart Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and his associates, culminating in a vocal display of dissatisfaction during a crucial meeting held at the residence of SAD’s patron Dhindsa at Chandigarh on Wednesday.
SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal had earlier given his word to the Dhindsa family regarding a party ticket to Dhindsa’s son and former finance minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa for Sangrur Lok Sabha constituency. However, the abrupt denial of this ticket, alongside the reneging on other significant promises made to Dhindsa and his allies, has sown seeds of discord within the party ranks.
The denial of ticket came months after Dhindsa had made a comeback in the SAD ranks after a hiatus of nearly three years. Dhindsa, along with his son and other supporters, had left the Akali Dal in protest against the Sukhbir’s working style. He went on to float SAD faction, which allied with BJP for 2022 state assembly elections.
Moreover, the Dhindsa family was upset as the ticket was allocated to their bete noire Iqbal Singh Jhundan.
During the meeting, senior Akali leaders and grassroots workers did not mince words as they voiced their strong objection to the decision, viewing it as a blatant disregard for the Sangrur constituency. They expressed deep disappointment over the party leadership’s failure to honour commitments made for the betterment of Punjab and the Sikh community.
Of particular concern was the alleged sidelining of Dhindsa during the ticket allocation process, despite prior assurances from the party brass to consult him upon his return to the SAD fold. Despite attempts to quell the brewing discontent, Dhindsa urged for unity and a reaffirmation of the core principles of the Shiromani Akali Dal.
The meeting saw a notable turnout of influential figures within the party, including former Ministers Baldev Singh Mann, Sarwan Singh Phillaur, former MLA Justice Nirmal Singh, former Minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa, and former MLA Balvir Singh Ghunas, among others.
This development holds particular significance as it unfolds amidst the Akali Dal's concerted efforts to unite various factions and former leaders, aiming to present a cohesive front.
Dhindsas in Touch with BJP
SAD’s selection of Iqbal Singh Jhundan as the candidate for Sangrur Lok Sabha seat has stirred significant activity in Sangrur. The decision came at a crucial juncture, particularly with the recent re-entry of the Dhindsa family into the Akali Dal's fold. While many anticipated Parminder Singh Dhindsa’s nomination for the seat, SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal’s choice of Jhundan has heightened tensions between the Dhindsa and Badal factions. Sources suggest that the Dhindsa family is considering a shift to the BJP, potentially fielding Parminder Dhindsa as the Lok Sabha candidate from Sangrur.
Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa has hinted at an imminent decision, hinting at possible political realignments. Speculation is rife that the Dhindsa family might back Parminder Dhindsa for the elections, possibly with BJP support, given Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa's establishment of the Akali Dal Dhindsa faction following his split from the Badal family.
