The Akal Takht imposed both religious and political punishments on Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal for his actions as Deputy Chief Minister from 2007 to 2017.
The punishments, though based on religious misconduct, also overlapped with Badal’s political role, blurring the line between religion and politics.
The Akal Takht pushed for Badal’s removal as SAD president and ordered party elections, directly influencing the political party's internal affairs.
India’s constitution promotes secularism, and religious intervention in political matters contradicts these principles, threatening the separation of religion and politics.
The SAD has struggled after poor electoral results in 2022 and 2024, losing support and attempting to revive its pre-1996 Sikh-centric agenda.
The SAD's return to a Sikh-focused agenda could revive extremist sentiments, risking violence and harm to both the community and India.
External actors seek to reignite the Khalistan movement, with radical elements still active, as seen in the recent assassination attempt on Badal
Historically, the SAD has provided a platform for addressing both religious and secular concerns of Sikhs, promoting moderation within the community.
A stronger religious influence over the SAD could undermine the party’s role and disrupt the balance between religious and political concerns.
If the Akal Takht takes control of the SAD, it could harm the broader political landscape and destabilize the relationship between religion and politics in India.
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