Amidst somber remembrance, the first death anniversary of former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal on Sunday saw a significant call for unity within the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) as his son and SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal, appealed to all splinter Akali groups to reunite under one flag.
The event, held in commemoration of the late Akali leader’s enduring legacy, witnessed a diverse gathering including political stalwarts, religious leaders, and representatives from various social organizations.
Addressing the assembled crowd, Sukhbir emphasized the importance of Panthic and Punjabi unity to uphold the values of social, economic, and political justice in the state. Reflecting on his father's legacy, he highlighted Parkash Singh Badal's commitment to nationalism, democracy, and communal harmony, underscoring his inclusive approach towards governance.
Sukhbir expressed his readiness to emulate his father’s selfless dedication to the welfare of the people and the state, pledging to uphold his principles and values.
Paying homage to senior Badal’s humility and statesmanship, Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar hailed the late leader as a beacon of progress and development. He lauded Badal’s role in fostering peace and communal harmony in the State, acknowledging his pivotal contribution to strengthening federalism and advocating for greater autonomy for Punjab.
The event also witnessed calls for solidarity from various political leaders, with appeals for strengthening the SAD and thwarting attempts to undermine its influence. INLD patriarch Om Parkash Chautala and Jan Nayak Janata Party leader Dushyant Chautala praised senior Badal’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of Punjabis, likening him to a visionary leader akin to Nelson Mandela.
The sentiments were echoed by Haryana Minister Choudhary Ranjit Singh and SAD patron Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, who urged Punjabis to uphold senior Badal's ideals and principles.
The commemoration underscored a rare political consensus on the enduring legacy of Parkash Singh Badal, emphasizing the need for unity and collective action to uphold his vision for a prosperous and harmonious Punjab.