The political atmosphere in Punjab has intensified as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched a scathing attack on the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, AAP Punjab Chief Spokesperson and Ajnala MLA, has raised serious allegations regarding the proximity of top Akali leadership to families of known gangsters.
Photographic Evidence Sparks Controversy
During a press conference, MLA Dhaliwal displayed photographs purportedly showing SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami, and other senior leaders like Virsa Singh Valtoha and Ganieve Kaur Majithia attending a wedding.
According to Dhaliwal, the event was the wedding of the sister of Amritpal Singh Bath in Amritsar. The AAP leader claimed these images expose a “nexus” between the Akali Dal and elements that the state government is currently working to dismantle.
“Nurturing Gangsterism” vs. Fighting It
Dhaliwal contrasted the actions of the Akali leadership with the efforts of the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government.
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AAP’s Stance: The government is engaged in a “major battle” to eliminate the drug mafia and gangster culture.
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The Accusation: Dhaliwal alleged that while the Akalis publicly criticize the government over law and order, they are privately “building relationships” with gangsters to secure political power.
“On one hand, Sukhbir Badal claims gangsterism is not ending; on the other, he attends their family functions. This proves his political battle rests on the shoulders of gangsters,” Dhaliwal stated.
A History of Unrest
The AAP leader did not mince words regarding Punjab’s past, drawing parallels between current events and the state’s darker periods. He claimed that just as the Congress and Akali Dal were responsible for the era of militancy, they are now “spoiling Punjab’s atmosphere” by patronizing criminal elements.
Key Allegations Raised by MLA Dhaliwal:
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Power Hunger: Accused the SAD of using Punjab’s youth as “fuel” for their political ambitions.
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Hypocrisy: Pointed out the contradiction between SAD’s public statements on crime and their private associations.
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Safety Warning: Urged Punjabis to remain vigilant against leaders who prioritize “lust for power” over state security.
The Government’s Promise
Despite the controversy, Dhaliwal reaffirmed the AAP government’s commitment to a “Crime-Free Punjab.” He assured the public that the crackdown on the drug mafia and organized crime would continue unabated, regardless of political interference.