Akal Takht Declares Badal Guilty of Misconduct

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal has been declared 'tankhaiya' (guilty of religious misconduct) by the Akal Takht, the highest Sikh temporal authority, for actions that harmed Sikh interests during his tenure from 2007 to 2017. Badal and his former cabinet colleagues have been summoned to appear before the Akal Takht within 15 days to seek forgiveness. The misconduct includes decisions taken as deputy chief minister and SAD president, which weakened the party and the Sikh community's image. Badal has already tendered an apology and expressed humility, accepting the edict. The verdict follows broader dissent within SAD, with expelled rebel leaders accusing Badal of compromising Sikh sentiments for political gains. The Akal Takht's decision underscores the need for accountability and reconciliation within the party and the Sikh community.