Independent MP from Faridkot Sarbjit Singh Khalsa, a pro-Khalistan ideologue and son of slain Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassin’s Beant Singh, on Sunday declared to float a new political outfit along with ‘jailed’ Sikh preacher and fellow MP from Khadoor Sahib Amritpal Singh, while extending an invitation to leaders from all communities to join forces.
Khalsa stated that he would collaborate with Member of Parliament Amritpal Singh to establish the new party. He emphasized the importance of unity and inclusivity, inviting leaders from various sects and communities to come together under this new political banner.
At the same time, Khalsa confidently predicted that the new party would secure at least nine seats in future elections, showcasing his optimism and determination to make a substantial impact on the political landscape of Punjab.
Addressing the current state of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), led by Sukhbir Singh Badal, Khalsa expressed his dissatisfaction with the party’s approach. He noted that while the party itself does not represent any specific community’s interests adequately, it comprises both good and bad individuals.
He shared that he has received calls from several members within SAD, indicating a potential shift in allegiance if he moves forward with his plans.
Khalsa’s bold announcement has the potential to shake up the political dynamics in Punjab. His call for unity among leaders across various communities suggests a move towards a more inclusive and representative political platform. The collaboration with Amritpal Singh further strengthens the foundation of this new political endeavour, especially when their other close associates are also preparing to enter the political ring keeping an eye on the impending byelections for four assembly segments in Punjab.
The purported move assumes significance as this Lok Sabha elections, Punjab voted for the panthic agenda on two of its 13 seats with NSA detainee Amritpal Singh and Khalsa registering thumping victories. In fact, Amritpal Singh, who has been lodging in Assam’s Dibrugarh jail since April 2023, emerged as the candidate with highest winning margin of 1,97,120 votes in the state this election.
Their victories highlight a deep-seated frustration with successive Central and State Governments’ inability to tackle key issues vital to Punjab. Be it rampant drug crisis or unresolved sacrilege cases to contentious riparian rights and unresolved grievances from the turbulent militancy era, the people of Punjab have grown weary of empty promises. The decisive shift in the electorate reflected a demand for meaningful action and lasting solutions to their enduring problems.
The long pending issues like justice for the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots remains elusive with wounds from that tragic period still persisting, fueling discontent. Besides, several Sikh political prisoners have spent over three decades in jail and their release is a matter of concern for many — leading to protests and agitations.
And by bringing together leaders from different communities, Khalsa is aiming to address the diverse needs and concerns of the people more effectively.
