SAD & Splinter Faction in Legacy War on Longowal Death Anniversary

The 40^th anniversary of Sant Harchand Singh Longowal's assassination turned into an occasion for the two competing Shiromani Akali Dals (SAD) to hold rallies and display a show of strength in Longowal's native village. As chief of SAD, Longowal had steered the SAD during India's Emergency in 1975–77, had launched the Dharam Yudh Morcha (Principled Battle Front) in 1982 to guard Panjab's river waters. He was assassinated on 20 Aug 1985 at Gurdwara Akal Prakash at Sherpur village, Sangrur a month after he signed the Punjab Accord with former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in Delhi. The outpouring to mark the death anniversary at both SAD rallies underlined the popularity enjoyed by moderate Longowal who had come under criticism from several quarters in Panjab after he had signed the accord. Longowal's assassination contributed to the formation of the SAD govt led by Surjit Singh Barnala in September 1985. Forty years later, addressing their supporters, both SADs launched blistering attacks on each other. SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal dubbed the Giani Harpreet group as 'Centre’s stooge'. Giani Harpreet termed the Badal camp as a 'group of deserters who have no right to be in the party or government as they have not abided by the edicts of Sri Akal Takht Sahib (Eternal Throne).' Badal said Panthic (Sikh collective) ideals and principles were 'paramount for him' and he would never compromise on the prestige of the Panth for power. Parminder Singh Dhindsa said the revival of the SAD led by Giani Harpreet Singh, would be a real tribute to Longowal. Both rallies were well attended but the stages were different. While the Badal stage had high seats for the leaders, the Giani Harpreet stage had installed the Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh scripture and charter) on the side indicating they are conducting their program in the traditional manner. Simultaneously, addressing Aam Aadmi Party state chief Aman Arora said Longowal sacrificed his life for communal harmony and was a guiding light for every peace-loving individual. Arora announced USD 262K worth developmental projects in village Longowal (earlier coverage).