SAD President Sukhbir Badal Intensifies Attack on Delhi-Based Political Parties in Punjab
In a sharp escalation of rhetoric, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal on Sunday launched a blistering attack on political parties in Punjab that are controlled from Delhi. Addressing a rally at Tajoke village in Barnala district, Badal asserted that whether it is the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, or the Bharatiya Janata Party, all Delhi-based parties have come to rule and loot the state, while SAD remains steadfast in its commitment to serving Punjabis.
Shift in Strategy: Badal Equates BJP with Congress and AAP
Previously, Sukhbir Badal had been more guarded in his criticism of the BJP, focusing his scathing attacks primarily on the Congress and AAP. However, this stance changed after BJP leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah hinted on Friday that the party might go solo in the next assembly elections. In response, Badal has now explicitly equated the BJP with other national parties, arguing that none of them can genuinely care for Punjab.
"People must stop experimenting with Delhi-based parties," Badal urged the crowd. "No party controlled from Delhi can prioritize Punjab's interests the way our own party does. SAD has stood with the people through thick and thin, unlike these outsiders who only seek to exploit our resources."
Allegations of Looting and Bankruptcy Under Previous Governments
Badal painted a grim picture of Punjab's recent history, claiming that the state has suffered tremendously over the past nine years. He accused both the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party of looting the state's resources and driving it into bankruptcy, while asserting that the BJP is no less culpable.
"The Congress and AAP have systematically plundered Punjab, leaving it financially crippled," Badal declared. "The BJP is equally responsible for this decline. If SAD forms the government in 2027, we are committed to holding all of them accountable for their actions."
Promises of Accountability and Anti-Corruption Measures
The SAD president outlined a series of measures his party would implement if it returns to power. He vowed to take strict action against all acts of corruption committed by Congress and AAP leaders, ensuring that every rupee looted from the state is repaid.
- Formation of a Commission: Badal announced that a commission would be established to review all false cases filed against political opponents, aiming to restore justice and transparency.
- Corruption Crackdown: SAD will initiate legal proceedings to recover misappropriated funds and prosecute those responsible for financial mismanagement.
- Policy Review: The party plans to reassess failed initiatives like the Progressive Punjab Investors' Summit, which Badal dismissed as a "damp squib" under the AAP government.
Badal criticized the AAP administration for what he called a "propaganda exercise" at the fag end of their tenure, accusing them of failing to deliver on promises for four years and now attempting to mislead voters.
Rally Support and Broader Political Context
The rally also featured an address by SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia, underscoring the party's unified front against Delhi-based political forces. This event marks a significant shift in SAD's strategy as it positions itself as the sole authentic representative of Punjabi interests, distancing itself from national parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
Badal's remarks reflect growing tensions in Punjab's political landscape, where regional identity and autonomy are becoming central themes. By framing the contest as one between "outsiders" and "locals," SAD aims to consolidate its base and challenge the dominance of parties with headquarters in Delhi.
