Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
SAD targets BJP, AAP at Baisakhi event; questions over Sikh identity, Bandi Singhs and Ram Rahim favoritism
Babushahi Bureau
Tarn Taran (Punjab), April 13, 2025: On the occasion of Baisakhi and Khalsa Foundation Day, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Vice President and Khadoor Sahib constituency in-charge, Ravinder Singh Brahmpura, extended greetings to the Sikh community while using the sacred platform at Gurdwara Patshahi Panjvi, Chohla Sahib, to launch a sharp critique of opposition parties — particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
Brahmpura accused the BJP of double standards regarding Sikh issues, questioning the party’s failure to support critical amendments such as Article 25(b), which would formally recognize Sikhs as a distinct religious identity under the Indian Constitution.
“If BJP truly supports Sikhs, why has it not pushed the Prime Minister to amend this article?” Brahmpura asked. He further demanded answers on the continued incarceration of Bandi Singhs, Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences but remain behind bars.
The SAD leader also criticized BJP leader Sunil Jakhar for his ties to Gurmeet Ram Rahim, a self-styled godman convicted of heinous crimes, who has repeatedly been granted parole by the BJP-led government.
“Why does BJP feel uneasy when Punjab’s regional parties raise their voice for Sikh rights?” Brahmpura questioned.
He also came down heavily on Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, accusing his AAP government of failure on all fronts and lacking the political will to address core issues facing the state.
Brahmpura warned against aligning with national parties like the BJP, stating that such alliances have historically weakened regional voices and damaged Sikh institutions.Citing examples, he accused the BJP of trying to assert control over Takht Sri Hazoor Sahib, Nanded, and the Haryana SGPC.
Brahmpura compared the BJP’s current behavior to Congress’s historical wrongdoings, including the 1984 attack on Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the anti-Sikh riots, accusing both parties of perpetuating policies that marginalize minorities and create religious discord.
He reaffirmed Shiromani Akali Dal’s unwavering commitment to Panth, Punjab, and Punjabiyat, praising party president Sukhbir Singh Badal for his ongoing struggle to safeguard Sikh values.
“SAD will never compromise on its principles, no matter the sacrifice,” he declared.
Notable figures present at the event included Gursewak Singh Sheikh, Satnam Singh Karmunwala, Dilbagh Singh Kahlwan, Sukhjinder Singh Bittu, Sarpanch Pakhopur, Jagroop Singh Pakhopur, Raghbir Singh Rinku Brahmpura, Amrik Singh, Avtar Singh, Gurdev Singh, Balbir Singh Balli, Kurinder Singh, Dilbar Singh, and Gurdial Singh.