Senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa has passed away. Dhindsa played a crucial role in establishing Sukhbir Badal as the party chief. His contribution to Akali politics will always be remembered.
Punjab News: Another prominent figure in Akali politics, Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, has passed away. He was considered one of the most important leaders of the moderate faction within the Shiromani Akali Dal. Throughout his political journey, Dhindsa imparted a new direction to Punjab's political landscape. He was known as a grassroots leader who consistently worked for the strengthening of his party. Dhindsa was very close to the Shiromani Akali Dal patron and former Punjab Chief Minister, Prakash Singh Badal. Their political journey together was filled with many twists and turns, but Dhindsa largely stood by Badal.
Appointing Sukhbir Badal as Party Chief
Dhindsa was instrumental in proposing Sukhbir Singh Badal for the post of President of the Shiromani Akali Dal in 2007. This was during the period when the BJP and Akali Dal alliance returned to power in Punjab. While Sukhbir Badal's strategy and efforts played a significant role in bringing the party to power, Dhindsa's political acumen and foresight were crucial in facilitating this decision.
He played a key role in entrusting Sukhbir Badal with the party's leadership, recognizing the pulse of the times.
Distancing Himself from the Barnala Government in 1985
In 1985, when Surjit Singh Barnala formed the government in Punjab, senior leaders like Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, then a four-time MLA, chose not to be a part of it. This decision signified Dhindsa's desire to stand with Prakash Singh Badal, who opposed the Barnala government.
Operation Black Thunder, conducted during the Barnala government, became a major issue in Akali politics. This operation aimed to remove terrorists hiding within the premises of the Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar. The Akali Dal was deeply divided on this issue, but Dhindsa remained steadfast in his support for Badal. He consistently championed a moderate line and firmly opposed extremist ideologies.
Dhindsa's Steadfastness Following Longowal's Assassination
Following the assassination of Sant Harchand Singh Longowal, instability spread within Akali politics. Leaders like Dhindsa and Badal took on the responsibility of stabilizing the party. This was a period when the Akali Dal was split into two factions – moderate and extremist. Dhindsa consistently worked to keep the party within mainstream politics, solidifying his position as one of Badal's closest associates.
Support for the Alliance with BJP
In 1996, when the Shiromani Akali Dal decided to form an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Dhindsa supported Prakash Singh Badal's decision. Although he was initially upset about not being included in the cabinet after the alliance, Badal appeased him. Dhindsa continued to work tirelessly for the party and carved a distinct identity for himself in Punjab's political arena.
Dhindsa's Departure from the Party and Final Journey
In his later years, Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa became disillusioned with the Shiromani Akali Dal. He left the party in 2018 and formed a new party called Shiromani Akali Dal (United). However, he will be most remembered for his role within the Shiromani Akali Dal. He not only strengthened the party but also prevented its disintegration on several critical occasions.
