JALANDHAR: The rebel leaders of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) today raised the banner of revolt against party president Sukhbir Badal and decided to launch 'Save Akali Dal' campaign on July 1 after paying obeisance at Sri Akal Takht.
A spokesman of rebel leaders said that they would present a letter to Jathedar of Akal Takhat seeking pardon for any mistake they might have committed during rule of SAD in Punjab. The leaders said that SAD had ruled Punjab several times and served the people of Punjab but in the recent past, party has lost the credibility and witnessed humiliating defeat. The leaders discussed the factors behind party's poor performance in Lok Sabha polls.
The meeting of rebel SAD leaders said that party president Sukhbir Badal shall respect the sentiments of party workers while asking him to step down.
The gathering felt that the leadership of SAD had lost contact with the masses and people are frustrated from the party. They have maintained distance from the party. The press release by party has not named Sukhbir Badal but they said that some personality having hold in religious and political affairs must lead the party.
The rebel Akalis passed resolution to implement the recommendations of Jhunda committee on reforms in SAD. The meeting also resolved to raise string voice for release of MP elect Amritpal Singh lodged in Asaam jail and demand release of bandi singhs.
The SAD would start agitation to save waters of Punjab. The party would struggle to take back control of religious institutions. The meeting also decided to save Punjab from drugs and lawlessness.
Many senior leaders of party attended the meeting. They included Prem Singh Chandumajra, Kiranjot Kaur, Surjit Singh Rakhra, Bibi Jagir Kaur, Sikandar Singh Malooka, Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Satwinder Kaur Dhaliwal, Gurpartap Singh Wadala, Bhai Manjit Singh, Gagandeep Singh Barnala and many others.