The Akal Takht, the highest temporal body for Sikhs, has punished senior Akali leaders including former Punjab Deputy CM and SAD Chief Sukhbir Badal for their involvement in the 2015 sacrilege incidents. As penance, Badal and others have been assigned tasks such as cleaning, washing, and guard duty, and have had titles and benefits revoked. This event represents a historic moment in Punjab politics, showcasing the authority of the Akal Takht and the humbling of once-powerful figures.
Dera Sacha Sauda and Akal Takht's Punishment of Akali Leaders
Background
Dera Sacha Sauda is a controversial religious organization headquartered in Sirsa, Haryana. Its leader, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan, has been convicted of rape and murder and is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence. In 2015, incidents of sacrilege of the Sikh holy book, Guru Granth Sahib, took place in Punjab. The Akal Takht, the highest temporal body for Sikhs, accused members of the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) of involvement in the sacrilege.
Punishment of Akali Leaders
In a historic ruling, the Akal Takht on August 28, 2023, punished senior Akali leaders for their alleged role in the sacrilege incidents. The leaders included former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and SAD Chief Sukhbir Badal, his wife Harsimrat Kaur Badal, and former Punjab Education Minister Daljit Singh Cheema.
As penance, the leaders were assigned various tasks, including:
Significance
The Akal Takht's decision represents a major setback for the Akali Dal and Sukhbir Badal, who have been dominant figures in Punjab politics for decades. It showcases the authority of the Akal Takht and its ability to hold powerful individuals accountable.
Top 5 FAQs
Q1: Why were the Akali leaders punished? A: They were accused of involvement in the 2015 sacrilege incidents of the Sikh holy book.
Q2: What are the specific tasks assigned to the leaders as penance? A: They include cleaning utensils, performing guard duty, and revoking their titles within the SAD.
Q3: Is this the first time that the Akal Takht has punished political leaders? A: No, the Akal Takht has previously punished Sikh politicians found guilty of misconduct or sacrilege.
Q4: What is the significance of the Akal Takht's ruling? A: It showcases the authority of the Akal Takht as the highest temporal body for Sikhs and its ability to hold powerful individuals accountable.
Q5: What is the future of the Akali Dal after this ruling? A: It remains uncertain, but the ruling is likely to weaken the party's position in Punjab politics.
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