Rebel faction of the Shiromani Akali Dal, led by Giani Harpreet Singh, inaugurates its new headquarters in Amritsar; organizational overhaul aims to reclaim Punjab’s political narrative ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.

Why the Split Occurred

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), once a dominant Sikh political force in Punjab, has faced dwindling grassroots morale due to corruption allegations, governance failures, and internal dissent. Frustrated by Sukhbir Singh Badal’s centralized leadership, the reform-minded faction led by Giani Harpreet Singh gravitated toward a renewed vision grounded in religious authenticity, internal democracy, and agrarian priorities.

The New Headquarters in Amritsar

Strategically located near prominent Sikh shrines, the new headquarters symbolizes the faction’s religious and cultural resonance. The facility—under renovation—will include:

• The party president’s office

• Media and communications cell

• Youth, women, and farmers’ departments

• A policy research wing drafting issue-based manifestos

Satellite offices are planned in each Punjab district within six months, reinforcing aggressive grassroots outreach.

Organizational Restructuring

To consolidate its structure, the faction has formed core and executive committees overseeing:

• Political strategy: election planning and candidate selection

• Religious affairs: alignment with Sikh values and Panthic interests

• Farmer welfare: MSP guarantees, debt relief, irrigation

• Youth engagement: addressing drug abuse and unemployment

Term limits are enforced: no office-bearer may serve more than two consecutive terms.

Political Messaging and Leadership

At the inaugural meeting, Giani Harpreet Singh declared:

“This is not merely the birth of a new office—it is the beginning of a movement to return Punjab’s politics to its moral and spiritual roots.”

The faction’s slogan, “Navi Soch, Sach Da Raah” (New Thinking, Path of Truth), targets both traditional SAD voters and disillusioned youth.

Reactions from Rivals

The Badal-led SAD dismissed the development as a temporary distraction, confident in its established base. Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Indian National Congress are observing closely—analysts warn that a credible Akali rival could split Punjab’s rural Sikh vote, altering outcomes in closely contested seats.

Grassroots Response

In areas across Amritsar, Tarn Taran, and Gurdaspur, the faction is combining nagar kirtans with political rallies. Farmers’ unions are cautiously optimistic due to the faction’s focus on MSP and water conservation. Disenchanted SAD workers are switching allegiances, while youth groups appreciate the emphasis on anti-drug campaigns and skill development centers.

Challenges Ahead

1. Limited resources—raising funds without established channels

2. Electoral recognition—Election Commission will decide on party name and symbol

3. Overlapping voter base—winning over traditional SAD constituencies won’t be easy

4. Balancing religious legitimacy with political appeal to broader audiences

Analysts’ Perspective

Dr. Jagdeep Kaur (Punjab University) says:

“Even a 5–7% vote share could tip results in Majha and Doaba constituencies—momentum must extend beyond initial publicity.”

Historical Context and Future Plans

Factionalism has long shaped Punjab’s Akali politics; what sets this apart is the leader’s strong religious credentials and grassroots credibility. With less than two years until the 2027 Assembly elections, time is tight—but the upcoming statewide Punjab Bachao Yatra, starting September 2025, aims to:

• Campaign on farmer rights and agrarian reforms

• Address drug rehabilitation of youth

• Protect Sikh institutions from political meddling

• Improve rural infrastructure

The journey culminates in a grand rally in Ludhiana, marking the faction’s official public launch.