06-Dec-2024, 11:31 AM
Former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal has been working as a “sewadar” at Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib lately. This role follows a religious penance imposed by the Akal Takht, the supreme authority of Sikhism, due to perceived failures during his party’s governance from 2007 to 2017. This punishment includes performing various duties such as washing utensils and cleaning shoes at significant Sikh shrines, including the Golden Temple and other gurdwaras across Punjab.
On December 4, 2024, Badal survived an assassination attempt while performing his duties at the Golden Temple. An attacker opened fire at him but was quickly subdued by nearby sewadar volunteers, preventing any injury to Badal67. Following this incident, he continued his penance at Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib, where he was seen in a blue sewadar uniform, symbolizing his commitment to atonement and service to the Sikh community.
The Akal Takht’s decision for Badal to undertake these duties reflects a broader context of accountability within the SAD, which has faced significant electoral setbacks in recent years. The party’s performance has declined sharply since its peak in 2012, winning only three seats in the 2022 assembly elections and one seat in the recent Lok Sabha elections. This decline has prompted internal strife within the party, leading to calls for introspection and restructuring among its leadership.
Badal’s current situation highlights not only his personal challenges but also the evolving political landscape of Punjab. His service as a sewadar is seen as an opportunity for redemption within the party and a chance to reconnect with the Sikh community after years of political turmoil. The Akal Takht’s involvement underscores the importance of religious authority in guiding political figures within Sikhism, reinforcing that leaders are expected to uphold moral and ethical standards reflective of their faith.
As he continues his duties at Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Badal’s actions will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike. The outcome of this penance may significantly influence his political future and that of the SAD as it seeks to regain its footing in Punjab’s complex political environment.
