The North News
Chandigarh, April 12
Sukhbir Singh Badal was re-elected unopposed as the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Saturday, marking his return to the party’s top position five months after stepping down. The decision was made unanimously at a party meeting held at the Teja Singh Samundri Hall, situated within the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar.
Addressing a press conference following the announcement, Badal described his re-election as “a victory of the people of Punjab,” adding that the Shiromani Akali Dal had a long tradition of sacrifice and service in its 104-year history. “Party workers have made enormous contributions for the welfare of the state and the nation,” he said, striking a tone of continuity and commitment to Punjab’s political identity.
A total of 524 delegates from Punjab and other states participated in the meeting. The nomination was formally proposed by acting president Balwinder Singh Bhunder, and no other names were put forward. Returning officer Gulzar Singh Ranike announced the result amid general consensus.
Badal had first taken over as the president of SAD in 2008, succeeding his father and party patriarch, the late Parkash Singh Badal. He continued to serve as party chief until his resignation last year following a period of political turbulence for the party. His return comes at a time when SAD is attempting to rebuild its base and regain political momentum ahead of upcoming elections.
