Chandigarh

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal called for the cancellation of Punjab’s panchayat elections, citing widespread illegalities, and demanded new elections be held. Speaking at a protest outside the SDM office in Gidderbaha, Badal urged candidates whose nominations were rejected by the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to reach out to the party’s legal cell or submit their complaints at local offices for further action.

He emphasized SAD’s commitment to restoring grassroots democracy, regardless of political affiliations, and vowed to hold AAP ministers, legislators, and officials accountable for undermining democratic processes. We will ensure cases are registered against such individuals, he declared.

Badal welcomed a recent high court ruling that put elections on hold in villages involved in 270 petitions, while criticizing the AAP government for its claim that 3,800 sarpanches and 49,000 panches were elected unanimously. He argued that this so-called unanimity was forced by AAP operatives, reinforcing his call for fresh elections.

He expressed concern over unprecedented oppression faced by the Opposition during his 40 years in politics, citing that lists were altered after nominations were submitted to prevent opposition candidates from participating. He accused AAP ministers and MLAs of corruption, stating that their actions would harm AAP in the upcoming Gidderbaha assembly by-election. Badal promised to uphold the legacy of Parkash Singh Badal in the constituency and assured residents he would work diligently to address their concerns.