In Punjab’s politically-charged atmosphere, a song in support of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) former president Sukhbir Singh Badal has taken social media by storm — just days before the Akal Takht Sahib is set to pronounce its verdict on him. The song, composed by Haryanvi singer Rocky Mittal, portrayed Sukhbir as “a victim of conspiracies” while sharply criticizing the rebel faction within the party. Released on social media, the song accused the dissident leaders of betrayal and central agencies of orchestrating a vendetta against the Akali stalwart.
Rocky Mittal, who has a significant following on YouTube, is no stranger to controversy. In the song, he called Sukhbir a leader who resisted Delhi’s alleged dominance. The video even depicted Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in a subservient role to AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, fueling political discourse in the State. Mittal’s song goes further, questioning the role of central agencies in Sukhbir Badal’s ongoing troubles, making it a direct appeal to rally support for the embattled leader.
This sudden support comes at a critical time for Sukhbir, who was declared tankhaiya (guilty of religious misconduct) earlier this year by the Akal Takht Sahib.
Meanwhile, the rebel SAD leaders have raised eyebrows at the timing of Mittal’s intervention. They argued that the song aimed to sway public sentiment before the December 2 judgment, which could potentially determine the political fate of Sukhbir Badal and key ministers from his tenure (2007–2017).
SAD’s rebel faction, led by senior leaders like Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Prem Singh Chandumajra, Bibi Jagir Kaur, Parminder Singh Dhindsa, others convened in Chandigarh to submit their resignations, emphasizing their commitment to Akal Takht Sahib’s decision, reaffirming their dedication as humble Sikhs ready for any religious or political service. Convenor Gurpratap Singh Wadala accepted their resignations.
Mittal’s own journey has been equally dramatic. Formerly aligned with the BJP, Mittal joined Congress in 2022, releasing a song titled ‘Mujhe Maaf Karna, Rahul Mere Bhai’. While his shift to Punjab’s political narrative was unexpected, his latest creation has ignited speculation about his motives. Critics questioned whether the song represents genuine solidarity or strategic positioning in Punjab's complex political landscape.
As December 2 approaches, the Akal Takht Sahib, under Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, has urged all stakeholders to avoid public statements, maintaining the sanctity of the decision-making process. The call for restraint comes amid heightened speculation over the consequences of the verdict, which could redefine SAD’s trajectory and Punjab’s political future.
