AMRITSAR: While condemning the parole given to the chief of Dera Sacha Sauda Gurmeet Ram Raheem, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) questioned at the stoic silence maintained by the governemnt on the issue of the release of bandi Singh (Sikh political prisoners).
While talking to media persons in Amritsar on Saturday, SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal said: "repeated paroles were being given to Gurmeet Ram Raheem but justice was not being done with bandi Singhs who were languishing in jails even after completion of their sentences".
Stating that there was a need to apply a healing touch to anguished Sikh hearts, he alleged that instead of doing this the governments were bending over backward to please a convict.
On Saturday, Sukhbir inducted BJP state Scheduled Caste wing vice president Rakesh Kumar Rinku along with his supporters into the SAD. He said Rinku’s induction into the SAD had boosted the party in the Majha region and assured the leader of due responsibility in the party.
Reacting to the "farzi" prime minister remark made against former prime minister Manmohan Singh allegedly by Punjab leader of opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, Sukhbir said: "Bajwa should think before speaking. Dr Manmohan Singh is respected worldwide for his contributions to nation-building. I am shocked that Rahul Gandhi, who was present on the occasion, did not object and asked Bajwa to withdraw his statement. It is equally surprising that the Congress party has also not proceeded against Bajwa which indicates it is complicit in destroying Dr Manmohan Singh’s legacy".
Among others who were present on the occasion included Anil Joshi, Gulzar Singh Ranike and Gurpartap Singh Tikka.
