Overview

• Both camps drew supporters to separate stages in Punjab’s Sangrur district on August 20–21, showcasing competing claims to be the “real” Akali Dal.
• This was the first political rally by the breakaway group after former acting Akal Takht jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh was named its president on August 11.
• SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal vowed not to compromise on panthic principles and pledged laws to reserve government jobs for Punjabis, restrict land purchases by outsiders, and require 80% local hiring in new industries.
• Badal called the rival faction a “Centre’s stooge,” while the breakaway camp said the Badal-led party had ignored Akal Takht directions issued on December 2, 2024.
• The split, highlighted at events honoring Harchand Singh Longowal, has left the century-old party at a crossroads over leadership and its claim to represent Sikh political interests in Punjab.