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Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Punjab: Don't mislead people for vested interests: CM to Akalis, farm bodies
Chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday accused Akali leaders and farmer unions of misleading the public by spreading false narratives to secure their personal and political interests. He also charged office-bearers of certain farmer unions with illegally amassing wealth and investing in hotels and hospitals across the state. Speaking during the 'Sarkar Tuhade Dwar' programme in Bathinda, where he interacted with local panchayat members, Mann said that farmer unions and farmers are distinct entities. 'These unions have opened shops in the name of securing farmers' interests,' Mann said, according to a statement issued by his office. However, the statement did not specify which farmer unions or leaders the CM was referring to. The event, held at a private resort in Bathinda, focused on issues related to Punjab's agrarian crisis. However, the media was barred from covering the event. Mann also criticised farmer unions for their lack of action on important issues such as the water-sharing dispute with Haryana. He pointed out that the unions have been involved in organising road and rail blockades over trivial matters while remaining silent on major issues impacting the state's agriculture. 'Not once did the farmer unions issue a statement on the water-sharing controversy. They are more focused on their personal interests than the real issues affecting farmers,' Mann stated. He also claimed that some union leaders collect fees from farmers under the pretence of securing their rights but are more concerned with their own financial gains. The CM further accused the leaders of certain farmer unions of illegally acquiring vast properties in the state, including investments in hotels and hospitals. He stated that these leaders are using their positions for personal enrichment rather than working for the welfare of the farming community. Mann also lashed out at Akali leaders, accusing them of exploiting religious institutions such as the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Akal Takht for political gains. He alleged that the Akali Dal twists religious directives to suit their own agenda, deceiving the public in the process. 'Now we see that Virsa Singh Valtoha, a former MLA, is being re-inducted into the Akali Dal, and the Faqr-e-Qaum title will be reinstated to former chief minister Parkash Singh Badal. This is a clear indication of how the Akali leadership continues to misuse religious platforms for political advantage,' Mann said.
The Hindu
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Veteran Akali leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa dies at 89; political leaders express grief
Veteran Akali leader and former Union Minister Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa died Wednesday (May 28, 2025) evening following age-related health issues at a private hospital in Mohali. He was 89. He is survived by his wife, a son and two daughters. According to a statement by the hospital, Dhindsa was admitted on Tuesday in a critical condition. He was suffering from severe pneumonia and cardiac complications, compounded by age-related health issues. "Despite the best efforts of the multidisciplinary medical team, he passed away at approximately 5:05 p.m. today due to cardiac arrhythmia and cardiac arrest," it said. Dhindsa's son Parminder Singh Dhindsa was the Finance Minister in the erstwhile Akali government. Sukhdev Dhindsa became Shiromani Akali Dal Lok Sabha MP from Sangrur in 2004. He was the Union minister of sports, chemicals and fertilizers in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. Dhindsa was a Rajya Sabha MP from 1998 to 2004 and from 2010 to 2022. The Akali stalwart was given Padma Bhushan in 2019, but he then announced that he would return it in solidarity with farmers who were on protest against the now-repealed three farm laws. Born on April 9, 1936, in Ubhawal village of Sangrur district, Dhindsa's political journey began as a student leader at Government Ranbir College. After completing his graduation, Dhindsa was elected the 'sarpanch' of his village. In 1972, he became an MLA from the Dhanaula Assembly seat, contesting as an Independent. Later, he became an MLA from Sunam and Sangrur assembly constituencies. After Akali patriarch Parkash Singh Badal, Dhindsa was the senior-most leader in the Shiromani Akali Dal Dhindsa was expelled twice from the party — first in February 2020 and then in August 2024 after he raised questions about party president Sukhbir Singh Badal. His son Parminder Singh Dhindsa, who was the Finance Minister from 2012 to 2017, was also expelled twice from the party. Sukhdev Dhindsa was critical of the party after its poor performance in the 2017 Assembly Polls. In 2018, he resigned from all positions in the party, alleging that the 'taksali' (old guard) leaders were being sidelined in the party. He raised a banner of revolt against the party leadership in 2020 and he floated own outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Democrat). In May 2021, Dhindsa and Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, also expelled from the SAD, floated a new political outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Sanyukt). Dhindsa became the president of the party, and Brahmpura its patron. SAD (Sanyuktt) fought the 2022 Punjab Assembly Polls in alliance with the BJP. In March 2024, a few months before the Lok Sabha polls, Dhindsa merged the party with Sukhbir Badal-led Shiromani Akali Dal. At that time, Dhindsa said, "There was an overwhelming feeling among our leaders and workers to merge with the SAD to effect unity in the Panth." The talks of reunion commenced in December 2023, when Badal sought an apology for the sacrilege incidents that took place during the Akali regime in 2015. However, in August 2024, the SAD again expelled Dhindsa, this time from the primary membership, for allegedly indulging in "anti-party" activities. The party also expelled other rebel leaders, who included former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra, ex-Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee chief Bibi Jagir Kaur, and Parminder Singh Dhindsa. The rebel leaders launched a 'Shiromani Akali Dal Sudhar Lehar' aimed to "strengthen and uplift" the 103-year-old party. Dhindsa also underwent religious punishment after the Sikh clergy at the Akal Takht on December 2, 2024, pronounced 'tankhah' (religious punishment) for Sukhbir Badal and other Akali leaders. The religious punishment was pronounced for the "mistakes" committed by the Shiromani Akali Dal and its government in Punjab from 2007 to 2017. Political leaders express grief Political leaders across parties condoled the death of Dhindsa, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling him a 'towering statesman with great wisdom and an unwavering commitment to public service'. Other leaders who condoled Dhindsa's demise included Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, BJP leader and former CM Capt Amarinder Singh and Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa. In his condolence message, Mr. Mann expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the senior Akali leader, acknowledging his relentless efforts for the welfare of the people. Extending his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to the God to give eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to family members for bearing this irreparable loss. Shiromani Akali Dal president Badal, while paying his tributes, said, 'My heart is deeply saddened by the passing away of Sardar Sukhdev Singh Ji Dhindsa Sahab'. In a post on X in Punjabi, Mr. Badal said Dhindsa, while being part of the SAD, served Punjab and the community for a long time which will always be remembered. Capt Singh said he was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, 'a dignified leader who served Punjab with integrity and dedication'. 'My heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters. May Waheguru grant peace to his soul,' Capt. Amarinder posted on X. Congress leader Bajwa, who is Leader of the Opposition in Punjab Assembly, described Dhindsa as a 'towering figure' in Punjab politics. 'A towering figure in Punjab politics, Dhindsa dedicated over six decades to public service. His legacy will be remembered with deep respect. May he rest in peace,' Mr. Bajwa posted on X. PM Modi said that Dhindsa's death is a major loss to the nation. 'He always had a grassroots level connect with Punjab, its people and culture. He championed issues like rural development, social justice and all-round growth. He always worked to make our social fabric even stronger,' the Prime Minister said in a post on X. Former Punjab minister Manpreet Singh Badal also condoled the demise of Dhindsa, whom he described as a grassroot leader who carried Punjab in his heart. 'Deeply saddened by the passing of S. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa Ji,' Mr. Manpreet Badal posted on X. 'I had the privilege of beginning my political journey under his guidance. His quiet wisdom and unwavering commitment continue to inspire me. His memory will live on in the fight for justice. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones,' he said. Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring said Dhindsa contributed immensely and positively to the state and national politics. 'My profound and heartfelt condolences over the sad demise of Sardar Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa Sahab. We have lost a great son of the soil who served Punjab for over six decades.' 'He served as the Union Minister besides contributing immensely and positively to the state and national politics. He was probably among the last great icons of the state who were witness to the eventful history of Punjab. Vacuum created by his demise will be too difficult to be filled,' Mr. Warring said in a post on X. BJP's national general secretary Tarun Chugh said Dhindsa was a visionary leader, an experienced parliamentarian and a person who lived a life dedicated to public service.
NDTV
2 days ago
- Politics
- NDTV
Veteran Akali Leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa Dies At 89
Chandigarh: Veteran Akali leader and former Union minister Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa died Wednesday evening following age-related health issues at a private hospital in Mohali. He was 89. He is survived by his wife, a son and two daughters. According to a statement by the hospital, Dhindsa was admitted on Tuesday in a critical condition. He was suffering from severe pneumonia and cardiac complications, compounded by age-related health issues. "Despite the best efforts of the multidisciplinary medical team, he passed away at approximately 5:05 PM today due to cardiac arrhythmia and cardiac arrest," it said. Dhindsa's son Parminder Singh Dhindsa was the finance minister in the erstwhile Akali government. Sukhdev Dhindsa became Shiromani Akali Dal Lok Sabha MP from Sangrur in 2004. He was the Union minister of sports, chemicals and fertilizers in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. Dhindsa was a Rajya Sabha MP from 1998 to 2004 and from 2010 to 2022. The Akali stalwart was given Padma Bhushan in 2019, but he then announced that he would return it in solidarity with farmers who were on protest against the now-repealed three fam laws. Born on April 9, 1936, in Ubhawal village of Sangrur district, Dhindsa's political journey began as a student leader at Government Ranbir College. After completing his graduation, Dhindsa was elected the 'sarpanch' of his village. In 1972, he became an MLA from the Dhanaula Assembly seat, contesting as an Independent. Later, he became an MLA from Sunam and Sangrur assembly constituencies. After Akali patriarch Parkash Singh Badal, Dhindsa was the senior-most leader in the Shiromani Akali Dal Dhindsa was expelled twice from the party – first in February 2020 and then in August 2024 after he raised questions about party president Sukhbir Singh Badal. His son Parminder Singh Dhindsa, who was the finance minister from 2012 to 2017, was also expelled twice from the party. Sukhdev Dhindsa was critical of the party after its poor performance in the 2017 Assembly Polls. In 2018, he resigned from all positions in the party, alleging that the 'taksali' (old guard) leaders were being sidelined in the party. He raised a banner of revolt against the party leadership in 2020 and he floated own outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Democrat). In May 2021, Dhindsa and Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, also expelled from the SAD, floated a new political outfit, Shiromani Akali Dal (Sanyukt). Dhindsa became the president of the party, and Brahmpura its patron. SAD (Sanyuktt) fought the 2022 Punjab Assembly Polls in alliance with the BJP. In March 2024, a few months before the Lok Sabha polls, Dhindsa merged the party with Sukhbir Badal-led Shiromani Akali Dal. At that time, Dhindsa said, "There was an overwhelming feeling among our leaders and workers to merge with the SAD to effect unity in the Panth." The talks of reunion commenced in December 2023, when Badal sought an apology for the sacrilege incidents that took place during the Akali regime in 2015. However, in August 2024, the SAD again expelled Dhindsa, this time from the primary membership, for allegedly indulging in "anti-party" activities. The party also expelled other rebel leaders, who included former MP Prem Singh Chandumajra, ex-Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee chief Bibi Jagir Kaur, and Parminder Singh Dhindsa. The rebel leaders launched a 'Shiromani Akali Dal Sudhar Lehar' aimed to "strengthen and uplift" the 103-year-old party. Dhindsa also underwent religious punishment after the Sikh clergy at the Akal Takht on December 2, 2024, pronounced 'tankhah' (religious punishment) for Sukhbir Badal and other Akali leaders. The religious punishment was pronounced for the "mistakes" committed by the Shiromani Akali Dal and its government in Punjab from 2007 to 2017.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Punjab CM Mann defends land pooling policy: ‘No forced acquisition, all about development'
Patiala: Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday addressed sought to clear what he described as "misconceptions" surrounding the state's land pooling policy and the govt's plan to acquire 24,000 acres in Ludhiana's suburbs. In an interaction with people during his 'AAP Sarkar, Aapke Duwar' event in Patiala, Mann said the state govt was not acquiring land forcibly, but was, instead, seeking the consent and input of farmers and landowners for sustainable urban development projects. Rejecting claims by opposition parties that the scheme was a scam, Mann said it was transparent and public-friendly. "Some (opposition parties) are creating baseless panic... I am here today to clarify that we are not taking away anyone's land without their agreement. We are here to seek your advice, ensure your participation, and bring development to your doorstep," he added. Highlighting practices under past govts, he said land acquisitions used to be opaque. "Earlier, leaders like Sukhbir Badal approved plans, then shared them with their favourite few, the result was massive profiteering by a few, while farmers and common people were left to suffer. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Those days are gone now. We are committed to transparency and fairness," he added. The CM also addressed the rampant issue of unapproved colonies in Punjab, a legacy of poor planning and corruption under previous administrations: "Illegal colonies mushroomed across Punjab, leaving residents without basic amenities like sewage, electricity, or potable water. Builders and developers made profits and abandoned people. Our govt is determined to regulate and redevelop these colonies, ensuring every resident gets access to modern facilities," he said. Mann stressed on the importance of bringing modern urban planning to rural Punjab. "Our villages deserve the same quality of life as cities. Planned development will ensure proper sewage, parks, electricity, and clean water. This is not just about infrastructure; it's about giving our rural population the dignity they deserve," he said. The CM criticised opposition parties for spreading fear and misinformation. "Half of these leaders, who now claim to stand with the people, are builders themselves. They are friends with land mafia and were responsible for selling off Punjab's lands to their associates at throwaway prices. They fear our policies because they bring accountability and remove corruption from the system," Mann said. Mann also cited an example of Akali leader Manpreet Ayali, highlighting his personal stake in opposing the land pooling policy. "Ayali fears this policy because it brings transparency and accountability, which would end his cosy deals in real estate. Such people are spreading baseless rumours to protect their own businesses, not the interests of farmers. They thrive on chaos and corruption, but their days of exploiting Punjab's resources are over," he said. He assured all agreements under land pooling policy would be made directly between the govt and landowners, ensuring legal protections and eliminating any chance of exploitation. "I am here to listen to you and seek your suggestions. Together, we can create a Punjab where every individual prospers and every village shines," Mann said, urging citizens to work with the govt to make Punjab a model state for development. NEW POLICY EXPLAINED During an interaction with people in Patiala, CM Bhagwant Mann explained the fundamentals of the state's land-pooling policy: Voluntary Participation | Landowners can choose whether or not to participate. Those who do not wish to give their land can continue using it for farming or other purposes Guaranteed Returns | For every acre contributed, landowners receive a residential plot of 1,000 square yards in developed urban areas and commercial Space of 2,00 square yards for shops or showrooms. These plots and spaces, once developed, will have significantly higher market value No additional costs | All development costs, including roads, drainage, electricity, and water supply infrastructure, will be borne by state govt 'Development will raise value' For instance, if your land is worth Rs 1 crore per acre today, the developed property you receive in return will be worth Rs 3-4 crore. You can keep the property, rent it for consistent income, or sell it at your discretion Bhagwant Mann | Punjab CM
Time of India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Last major Akali leader with no 2nd generation in assembly
Bathinda: In Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Punjab has lost one of the last of its first-generation politicians of high degree, mainly aligned with the Akali polity. Only a handful of veteran politicians, including Capt Amarinder Singh and Balwant Singh Ramoowalia — both of whom have had affiliations with the Akali Dal as well as other parties—remain from the old guard to witness this evolving political scene. Punjab has already witnessed a number of towering political leaders, including Parkash Singh Badal, Surjit Singh Barnala, Gurcharan Singh Tohra, Jagdev Singh Talwandi, Kuldeep Singh Wadala, Ranjit Singh Brahampura, and many others, passing away. Currently, the second generation — comprising heirs of the Badal, Barnala, Dhindsa, Brahampura, and Wadala families — holds key positions, though none has yet emerged as dominant power brokers. Among them, only the next generation of the Badal and Dhindsa families has attained significant political success. The sons of Surjit Singh Barnala, Jagdev Singh Talwandi, Gurcharan Singh Tohra, and Ranjit Singh Brahampura have each won only a single electoral contest. Barnala's son Gaganjit Singh was elected in 2002 from Dhuri; Talwandi's son Ranjit Singh Talwandi from the Raikot assembly constituency in 2002; and Brahmpura's son Ravinder Singh Brahmpura won in a byelection in 2016. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Click Here To Read More - micro segmentation software Expertinspector Click Here Tohra's adopted daughter, Kuldeep Kaur had lost, but her husband Harmail Singh won in 1997 and was elevated as minister, though he quit during the Badal-Tohra feud during that tenure. Gurpratap Singh Wadala, son of Kuldeep Singh Wadala, secured victory twice in the Punjab assembly elections of 2012 and 2017. In contrast, the Badal and Dhindsa families have maintained a firmer grip on power. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Parminder Singh Dhindsa have won multiple elections and held influential govt positions. Sukhbir and his wife Harsimrat Kaur Badal have also served as ministers in the Union govt. MSID:: 121469543 413 |
