Akali Dal to File Complaint Against Group Misusing Party’s Name

Quick Summary

• Shiromani akali Dal (SAD) is facing internal turmoil after a rebel faction announced it’s new president on August 11, 2025.
• SAD has declared intentions to file a criminal complaint against the rebel faction for misusing the party’s name, which is registered with the Election Commission since 1996.
• Party leader daljit Singh Cheema stated that all delegates of SAD are officially with the original party and accused the breakaway group of deceiving Punjabis.
• Cheema emphasized that SAD members had undergone formal membership drives and paid fees as per constitutional requirements, whereas the rebels did not follow such procedures.
• The move by the rebel group was labeled by Mr. Cheema as illegal, unconstitutional, immoral, and possibly liable for charges like forgery and cheating. Legal experts are being consulted regarding formal action.
• On August 11, Giani Harpreet Singh was announced as president by the breakaway faction.

indian Opinion Analysis

The split within Shiromani Akali Dal reflects growing tensions in regional political entities navigating identity politics. With SAD being deeply entrenched in Punjab’s socio-political fabric, this growth could create important disruptions in leadership cohesion while posing challenges to voter trust ahead of elections. Legal proceedings against a faction using identical nomenclature may set precedent about intellectual property rights over political branding under Indian law. For Punjab voters watching this unfold amidst regional complexities tied to faith-based leadership roles (e.g., Giani Harpreet Singh), maintaining neutrality becomes essential before endorsing either side’s claims.

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