From Gangster to Political Aspirant: Gurpreet Singh Sekhon's Journey in Punjab
In a dramatic shift from a life of crime to public service, Gurpreet Singh Sekhon has emerged as a new political figure in Punjab. Based in Bathinda, Sekhon recently orchestrated victories for two family members in the zila parishad elections from the Bajidpur and Ferozeshah zones in Ferozepur district. Buoyed by this success, he has announced his intention to contest the next assembly elections from Ferozepur district, actively preparing to enter the electoral arena.
A Criminal Past and Transformation
Gurpreet Singh Sekhon, 38 years old, has a notorious criminal history spanning over a decade. He faced more than 40 criminal cases, with the most prominent being his involvement in the sensational Nabha Jail Break in November 2016 and the killing of gangster Sukha Kahlwan. Sekhon received a 10-year sentence for the jail break but was acquitted in nearly all other cases, including the murder of Sukha Kahlwan. His first case dates back to 2012, and he was released from jail on November 22, 2023.
During his criminal career, Sekhon was associated with the Shera Khubban and Vicky Gounder groups. Prior to his descent into crime, he operated a brick kiln and a marriage palace, businesses he has continued to manage even after his release. Now, having been in public life for over a year, Sekhon has focused on social work, particularly during the devastating floods in August-September 2025, where he assisted aggrieved individuals. This connection with the people played a crucial role in securing the zila parishad election victories and motivated his decision to run for the assembly.
Political Ambitions and Public Statements
In an interview with TOI, Sekhon addressed his criminal past and political aspirations. He stated, "Those who still call me a gangster and question my credentials should first clarify their own contributions to society's betterment. I have completely reformed myself and am now devoted to public welfare, as demonstrated during the recent floods. Based on the closeness I developed with the people, I decided to contest the next assembly elections." He attributed his transformation to years spent reciting 'Gurbani' in prison, which gave him the willpower to serve the community.
Although considered close to the Shiromani Akali Dal, Sekhon emphasized his independence, saying, "I will take any decision as per the wishes of my supporters. If they ask me to contest as an independent, I will obey them." While active in the Zira assembly constituency, he has not declared himself a candidate from Zira, noting that there is still ample time before the elections.
Historical Parallels and Expert Analysis
Political experts draw parallels between Sekhon and other figures with similar backgrounds. Jaswinder Singh Rocky, a slain gangster-turned-social activist, contested the 2012 assembly elections from Fazilka, losing by a narrow margin of 1,692 votes to BJP's Surjit Kumar Jyani. Like Sekhon, Rocky faced multiple criminal cases before turning to social service and politics. He was killed in Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh, on April 30, 2016, while preparing for the 2017 assembly elections.
Another example is Lakha Sidhana, a social activist with a criminal past who contested the 2012 assembly election as a Peoples Party of Punjab candidate from Rampura Phool. These cases highlight a recurring trend in Punjab politics where individuals with checkered pasts seek redemption through public service and electoral participation.
As Gurpreet Singh Sekhon navigates his political journey, his story underscores the complex interplay between crime, reform, and democracy in Punjab. With his focus on social work and grassroots connections, he aims to reshape his legacy and make a mark in the upcoming assembly elections.
