Chandigarh, August 9, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Giani Harpreet Singh, president of the revived Shiromani Akali Dal, has announced that a collective prayer will be offered at Sri Akal Takht Sahib on August 11 to mark the first anniversary of the revival of the Panth’s regional political organisation and seek the release of Bandi Singhs.
In a written statement, Giani Harpreet Singh said the prayer would be dedicated to Sikh prisoners who, according to him, have remained incarcerated for prolonged periods and have grown old in prison without being released.
He specifically referred to Bhai Balwant Singh Rajoana, saying that he has spent 31 years in prison, including 19 years on death row, while the Centre has yet to take a final decision on his case. He also raised the issue of Bhai Jagtar Singh Hawara, saying that his elderly mother has not been able to meet him on parole.
Giani Harpreet Singh also criticised the repeated parole releases granted to Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who has been convicted in rape and murder cases, contrasting them with the situation of the prisoners he referred to as Bandi Singhs.
“We will oppose this injustice by the governments and, along with that, we will pray before Guru Hargobind Sahib, the Master of Miri-Piri and the true Patshah known as Bandi Chhor, asking Him to secure the release of these warriors,” he said.
He said the Shiromani Akali Dal was established on December 14, 1920, under the guidance of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. According to him, Sri Akal Takht Sahib intervened again on December 2, 2024, directing the revival of the organisation to address shortcomings and alleged malpractices that had developed over the years.
Following the directive, a five-member committee undertook the membership process, after which Giani Harpreet Singh was elected president during a democratic general session on August 11, 2025.
To mark the first anniversary of the revived organisation, prayers will be held at Sri Akal Takht Sahib to express gratitude to Guru Hargobind Sahib and seek the release of Bandi Singhs, while also praying for the Chardi Kala of the Panth, Punjab and the organisation.
Giani Harpreet Singh has invited party office-bearers, delegates, district presidents, workers, supporters and members of the Sikh sangat to assemble at the Information Centre in front of Sri Darbar Sahib at 10 a.m. on August 11. The gathering will then proceed as a jatha to Sri Akal Takht Sahib for the prayer.
Following the ceremony, a meeting of the organisation’s office-bearers and district presidents will be held at the party office at 2 p.m. to discuss and finalise its upcoming programmes.
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