Bikram Protests Against Jathedars’ Removal

Punjab / Amritsar : A major political controversy has erupted in Punjab after the removal of key Jathedars, with senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Majithia strongly opposing the decision. Expressing his discontent, he accused the party leadership of betrayal, saying that the move was equivalent to “stabbing in the back.” This development has also highlighted a growing rift within the Badal and Majithia families, raising speculation about internal disagreements within the party.

Majithia, a prominent SAD leader, has openly criticized the decision, stating that the removal of Jathedars was unjustified and against the sentiments of the Sikh community. He alleged that such actions were harming the party’s unity and could have long-term consequences. His remarks have fueled discussions about divisions within SAD, especially regarding the role of senior leaders in decision-making.

The absence of visible support from the Badal family for Majithia’s stand has further deepened speculations of a widening gap between both influential factions of SAD. While Sukhbir Singh Badal has not made any strong statements on the issue, the lack of coordination between the two families is becoming more apparent.

Meanwhile, Harjinder Singh Wadala, another key leader, has taken a different stance, stating that the recruitment drive for new Jathedars will continue despite the protests. He assured that the decision to replace Jathedars was taken after careful consideration and that it aimed to strengthen the institutions rather than weaken them. Wadala’s comments indicate that the SAD leadership is firm on its decision and is unlikely to back down despite opposition from within the party.

The removal of Jathedars and the subsequent political turmoil come at a crucial time for SAD, which is already facing challenges in regaining its stronghold in Punjab politics. With internal rifts becoming public, the party now faces the tough task of maintaining unity while addressing growing dissatisfaction among senior leaders.

As the controversy unfolds, political observers believe that these internal conflicts could impact SAD’s strategy ahead of the upcoming elections. The party leadership will need to strike a balance between making strategic changes and ensuring that its core support base remains intact. Whether SAD can overcome these internal struggles or if they will further weaken the party remains to be seen in the coming days.