Tarn Taran (National Times): Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal on Sunday officially announced Principal Sukhwinder Kaur Randhawa, head of the Azad Group, as the party’s candidate for the upcoming Tarn Taran bypoll, marking a major political realignment in the region.
In a significant show of strength, 43 sitting Sarpanches, 8 Municipal Councillors, and dozens of former Sarpanches and Chairmen from the Azad Group formally joined the Akali Dal. Welcoming the entire group into the SAD fold, Badal said this collective decision reflects growing public support for the party’s ideology and leadership.
‘Massive Rally Signals Change’
Speaking about the overwhelming turnout at a massive public rally in Jhabal village, Badal said the event has “set the tone for the Shiromani Akali Dal’s victory in the forthcoming Tarn Taran bypoll.” He lauded the Akali workers and the Azad Group for uniting under a shared vision to strengthen Punjab’s future.
Senior Leadership and Strategy
Badal announced that senior SAD leader S. Gulzar Singh Ranike will take charge as the Campaign In-charge for the Tarn Taran bypoll. “With Ranike’s leadership and the unity of the cadre, we are confident of securing a decisive win,” he added.
‘Time to Teach AAP and Congress a Lesson’
Issuing a strong statement against rival parties, Badal urged the people of Punjab to rally behind the Shiromani Akali Dal. “It is time to teach a befitting lesson to the Aam Aadmi Party, which is looting Punjab, and the Congress Party, which has disrespected our religious sentiments by desecrating our sacred places,” he said.
Badal’s announcement has created a buzz in Punjab’s political circles, with many seeing the entry of the Azad Group into SAD as a game-changing move ahead of the high-stakes by-election. The Tarn Taran seat has become a litmus test for all major parties as they gear up for the 2027 Assembly polls.
With Principal Sukhwinder Kaur Randhawa at the forefront, the Akali Dal appears poised for a strong electoral battle, one that could reshape the political landscape in the Majha region.
