Sukhbir Singh Badal Seeks Apology from Akal Takht for Past Misconduct

Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of Shiromani Akali Dal, sought forgiveness from Akal Takht for religious misconduct committed by his party and government from 2007-2017. Alongside former ministers, Badal submitted a written explanation accepting accountability and expressed readiness to accept any religious punishment as directed by the Akal Takht.

Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal, appeared before the Akal Takht on Saturday, seeking forgiveness for religious misconduct committed by his party and government between 2007 and 2017.

Alongside Badal, former ministers Daljit Singh Cheema, Gulzar Singh Ranike, Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, and former advisor Mahesh Inder Grewal, also submitted their written apologies to the Akal Takht.

The Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh declared Badal guilty of misconduct on Friday and deemed him 'tankhaiya' until he seeks forgiveness.

Following a meeting of the five Sikh head priests, Badal was asked to appear within 15 days to apologize for decisions they said harmed Sikh interests.

Badal's letter to the Akal Takht secretariat conveyed his acceptance of the edict and expressed humility in seeking an apology.

His former colleagues also vouched for shared responsibility for the mistakes and expressed willingness to undergo religious punishment as directed by the Akal Takht.

(With inputs from agencies.)