NK Sharma resigns from Shiromani Akali Dal amid leadership shake-up

Chandigar (The Uttam Hindu): On November 18, 2024, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) witnessed a significant political shift as senior leader Narinder Kumar Sharma, widely known as NK Sharma, announced his resignation from the party. Sharma attributed his decision to Sukhbir Badal's recent resignation as party president, emphasizing that he no longer wished to remain associated with the party in Badal's absence. However, he expressed his readiness to continue serving as a party worker if Badal were to resume his leadership role.

Sharma's departure highlights growing unrest within the SAD, which has been facing internal divisions and public criticism. Sukhbir Badal recently came under scrutiny from the Akal Takht, receiving religious sanctions due to multiple controversies during his tenure as Chief Minister. These included granting pardons to contentious figures and alleged inaction on incidents of sacrilege.

In response to these developments, the SAD appointed former Member of Parliament Balwinder Singh Bhundar as its acting president. Political observers see this move as an effort to stabilize the party amid internal dissent and to address the concerns of its core support base. This leadership transition comes at a critical time for the SAD as it prepares to navigate upcoming electoral challenges in Punjab.