Odisha, Odisha — A virtual split in the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has been reported, following a breakaway faction naming Giani Harpreet Singh as its president.

Background

The Shiromani Akali Dal, a prominent Sikh political party in India, has been plagued by internal conflicts and power struggles in recent years. The current crisis began after the Akal Takht, the highest Sikh temporal seat, issued a verdict on December 2, 2024, awarding religious punishments to party leaders, including Sukhbir Singh Badal, for the “mistakes” committed by the Akali Dal-led government from 2007 to 2017. The rebels had been alleging that the Akal Takht’s verdict was not implemented in letter and spirit.

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, which oversees the management of gurudwaras, had dismissed Giani Harpreet Singh’s services as the jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in February. This move was seen as a significant blow to the rebels, who had been seeking to assert their authority within the party.

Community Impact

The virtual split in the SAD has sparked a war of words between leaders of both camps. The breakaway faction, led by Giani Harpreet Singh, has vowed to take control of key Sikh institutions and party assets. In a statement, Mr. Harpreet Singh asserted that they were the “real” Akalis and would eventually take control of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, the Akali Dal symbol, and the Akali Dal office. Senior SAD leaders, however, have dubbed the faction as an “Agency Dal,” suggesting that they are being backed by external forces.

The development has sent shockwaves through the Sikh community, with many expressing concerns about the potential consequences of the split. The Punjab government has so far maintained a neutral stance, urging both factions to resolve their differences through peaceful means.

Local Significance

The virtual split in the SAD has significant implications for the Sikh community in Odisha, where the party has a substantial following. The development is likely to have a ripple effect, with many local leaders and activists being drawn into the conflict. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the community will respond to the crisis.

What Happens Next

As the virtual split in the SAD deepens, it is likely that the conflict will escalate in the coming days. The Punjab government will need to intervene to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control. The Sikh community, meanwhile, will be watching with bated breath as the drama unfolds. One thing is certain: the future of the SAD and the Sikh community hangs in the balance.