Mechanism to hold big leaders accountable, react Punjabi Hindus

Jalandhar: The spectacle and proceedings at the Akal Takht on Monday — holding the top brass of SAD, especially Sukhbir Singh Badal, accountable for their decisions and actions in the past, when they were in power; making him to admit the “mistakes” in full public view; questioning former ministers and other senior leaders — have drawn positive reactions from non-Sikhs, especially Punjabi Hindus, and people from outside the state too.Some have posted their reactions on social media also, while quite a few others have been sharing these in personal conversations. “Singh Sahiban’s (Sikh high priests) decisions, which restore authority and sanctity of the Akal Takht, are appreciable,” posted Puneet Garg on his Facebook wall, while mentioning the decisions.“Punjabi Hindus are also reacting positively to the happenings, holding that at least there is some mechanism to hold big leaders in the community accountable. There is also an element of appreciation that the authority of the Akal Takht has been asserted as they too wish that Sikh institutions should remain strong,” said senior journalist and commentator Rakesh Shantidoot.“Among Hindus also, people are reacting positively. Common refrain is that after all some authority has been asserted and it appeared like unfolding of history which we would read in books,” said Phagwara resident Manoj Lukhi.Former minister and senior BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia, who remained a minister in the Badal govt of 1997-2002 and then from 2007 till 2011, said that he also came across positive reaction from Hindu community members. “Such event has happened after several years, and it appeared to be reminiscent of historical accounts as well as making of history. It is good that the authority of the Akal Takht has been restored,” he said.“Wish other govts in the country also face such accountability, the way leaders of Badal govt in Punjab have been punished for their misdeeds,” posted social and political activist Gian Chand, who was also one of the foot soldiers of around two-decade long movement for opening of the Kartarpur Corridor.

Cleaning utensils, shoes over SAD rule 'mistakes': Akal Takht issues religious punishment for Sukhbir Singh Badal

Sukhbir Singh Badal and other Akali leaders have been issued a 'tankhah' by the Sikh clergy at the Akal Takht for religious misconduct during their tenure from 2007-2017. Badal must perform volunteer service and clean utensils and shoes at the Golden Temple. Additionally, the clergy revoked the 'Pride of the Community' title from Parkash Singh Badal.

Meeting today, Akali politics and Akal Takht at crossroads

Sikh high priests are set to decide on religious punishment for Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal, a move seen as crucial amidst SAD's political decline. Post-defeat in recent elections, the crisis also spotlights the fragmentation of Sikh politics and potential reforms or further conflict, shaped by past governance issues and rising influence of AAP.

Sikh community the real force behind Sukhbirs submission, Takhts assertion

Sukhbir Singh Badal admitted to past misdeeds during his and his late father's tenure in Punjab, amidst mounting community pressure. This followed a series of events including electoral losses, critical voices, and significant incidents since 2015. The Sikh community's persistent demand for justice led to the Akal Takht's strong assertion of authority over the Badals.