SAD

In a significant development within Punjab’s political landscape, senior leader Arvind Khanna has transitioned from the Bharatiya Janata Party to the Shiromani Akali Dal. The move was formalized in Sangrur in the presence of Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal. Khanna, who previously served as vice president of the BJP’s Punjab unit and as a legislator, brings organizational experience and regional influence to his new political home.

Punjab’s political landscape witnessed renewed tensions as Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Badal publicly accused Chief Minister Mann of orchestrating theatrics to divert attention from administrative shortcomings. Speaking at a recent press conference, Badal claimed that the CM’s actions were more focused on staged displays than addressing critical governance issues affecting the state. The remarks underscore deepening partisan divides and highlight ongoing debates over governance effectiveness, transparency, and accountability in Punjab’s political arena.

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has publicly criticized the government’s new health model, arguing that it falls short in addressing systemic issues and equitable access to healthcare. Party leaders highlighted concerns over infrastructure inadequacies, resource allocation, and the effectiveness of proposed schemes in rural and semi-urban areas. They urged the government to adopt a more inclusive and decentralized approach, emphasizing preventive care, transparency, and public accountability.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal has pledged to return land allegedly taken from farmers if his party wins the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. Addressing a public gathering, Badal accused the current state government of failing to safeguard farmers’ interests and allowing unfair land acquisitions. He assured that, under an SAD administration, justice would be delivered to affected families, and agricultural rights would be protected.

Bikram Singh Majithia, a prominent Akali leader with a controversial past, is facing mounting legal troubles following a police raid at his residence. The investigation into his alleged involvement in a Rs 540 crore drug trafficking case has taken a new turn, as police accuse him of inciting violence against officials and obstructing the collection of critical evidence. The vigilance team, which was reportedly seeking documents related to the case, claims that Majithia's supporters violently intervened to prevent the raid from proceeding.

In a significant escalation of legal troubles for Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) arrested the former state minister on Wednesday in connection with a fresh case related to disproportionate assets. The arrest follows raids on 25 properties across Punjab, triggered by findings linked to an ongoing drug-trafficking investigation dating back to 2021. Majithia, who was previously out on bail in a high-profile narcotics case, has called the latest action politically motivated.

The Ludhiana West by-election served as a complex litmus test for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Punjab, reflecting both resilience and limitations. Despite securing third place with a 22.54% vote share—slightly down from 2022—BJP leaders hailed their campaign as a success under extraordinary constraints, including the sudden demise of state in-charge Vijay Rupani. With just 13 days to campaign and a last-minute candidate nomination, the BJP still managed to consolidate its core base.

The fatal shooting of Shiromani Akali Dal Councillor Harjinder Singh Bahman in Amritsar has reignited concerns about the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab. Bahman was gunned down in broad daylight by assailants on a motorcycle, despite previous threats and a documented attack on his residence. The brazen killing has provoked widespread condemnation from political leaders, with critics accusing the state administration of negligence.