Chandigarh, April 23
The Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit) on Thursday launched its vision document in Chandigarh, outlining its roadmap for youth, farmers, women, and traders, with party president Giani Harpreet Singh highlighting a focus on Panthic issues, education, and healthcare ahead of the state assembly elections next year.
The document, described by the party as the ‘Akali declaration’, was released by Singh alongside senior leaders, including Bibi Jagir Kaur, Iqbal Singh Jhunda, Surjit Singh Rakhra, and Karnail Singh Peermohammad.
Addressing the media, Singh said the document covers issues related to the Panth and Punjabis, and asserted that Panthic matters would remain a priority for the party. He said the party would also focus on strengthening education and healthcare, calling them key pillars of a strong state.
On electoral strategy, Singh said the party plans to allocate 40 percent of tickets to youth, underlining their role in shaping the future. He expressed concern over unemployment and the drug problem in Punjab, criticizing successive governments for failing to address these challenges.
The party also targeted the AAP government over the state’s financial position, alleging that rising debt has increased the burden on the exchequer. Singh said a large share of state funds is being spent on salaries, pensions, and loan repayments.
According to the document, the party has committed to safeguarding Panthic principles and protecting the interests of all sections of society. It also stated that efforts would be made to release ‘Bandi Singhs’ and to strengthen a federal structure with greater rights for states.
The vision document was prepared by a committee led by Jhunda. The party, a breakaway faction of the Shiromani Akali Dal led by Sukhbir Singh Badal, was formed by rebel leaders and has been positioning itself ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
With its vision document, SAD (Punar Surjit) has outlined its political priorities and electoral approach, signaling an attempt to consolidate support across key sections while sharpening its stance on governance and state rights in the run-up to the polls.
