SAD to Boycott Vice Presidential Election, Citing Government Apathy Toward Punjab Flood Crisis

Chandigarh, September 8, 2025 – The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) announced on Monday that it will boycott the upcoming Vice Presidential election, accusing both the Punjab and Central governments of abandoning the state during one of its worst-ever flood disasters.

In a strongly worded statement, the party said that while Punjab reels under devastation, the nation is preoccupied with the Vice Presidential poll. “We represent the voice and pain of Punjabis. Therefore, SAD will not participate in tomorrow’s Vice Presidential election,” the statement read.

SAD leaders highlighted that nearly one-third of Punjab remains submerged, with widespread destruction of homes, farmland, and crops. They alleged that neither government has extended meaningful relief. The floods, they claimed, are a “man-made tragedy” caused by the negligence and incompetence of the state administration.

The party added that ordinary Punjabis, especially rural Sikh youth, have taken charge of relief efforts, embodying the spirit of seva and drawing inspiration from the teachings of the Guru Sahiban. “The Shiromani Akali Dal bows its head before the commitment and courage of Punjab’s youth,” it said.

According to SAD, the ongoing apathy has left Punjabis angry and disillusioned with the ruling establishments, intensifying the demand for accountability during this crisis.