Sukhbir Singh Badal has resigned from his position as the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), a move confirmed by senior party leader Daljit Cheema. The resignation comes amid internal tensions within the party, following a series of setbacks, including a poor performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections in Punjab. Following a crucial meeting between Sukhbir Singh Badal and senior party members, he announced his resignation as the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). Daljit Cheema confirmed that the resignation followed an in-depth discussion between Badal and the leadership. He added that the party had dissolved its core committee, with Badal now tasked with reorganizing the party’s structure. Cheema shared the statement on social media, emphasizing that the restructuring was essential for the SAD’s future growth.
This resignation follows months of unrest within the party. Rebel leaders, including prominent figures such as former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra and former SGPC president Bibi Jagir Kaur, had earlier called for Badal’s resignation, citing dissatisfaction over leadership decisions and the party’s declining influence. Additionally, a faction of party members launched the ‘Shiromani Akali Dal Sudhar Lehar’ (SAD Reform Movement) in an attempt to rejuvenate the party.
In response to the rebellion, Sukhbir Badal had expressed willingness to step down, acknowledging the collective responsibility for the party’s recent losses. However, he has emphasized the need for unity within the party, stating that all leaders must share in the blame for the SAD’s struggles. His decision to dissolve the core committee is seen as a move to address the internal dissent and rebuild the party’s organizational structure.
As SAD works to regroup under new leadership, the focus will likely shift to rebuilding its image and reconnecting with its traditional voter base.