Who is Parkash Singh Badal?

A Tragic Departure

Prakash Singh Badal, a pioneering political figure in Punjab, passed away on April 25, 2023, at the age of 95. His death marked the end of a remarkable life dedicated to the unity and stability of his state. Badal, a prominent figure in the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) party, served as the Chief Minister of Punjab five times and a vital force behind Hindu-Sikh unity.

Brief Early Life and Education

Born on December 8, 1927, in Abul Khurana village near Malot, Badal hails from a Jat Sikh family. He graduated from Frman Christian College in Lahore, paving the way for his political journey.

Political Career and Achievements

Early Political Involvement

Prakash Singh Badal embarked on his political career in 1947. He took up the roles of Sarpanch of Village Badal, followed by the position of Chair of Block Committee Lambi. His political career took a significant turn when he was elected to the Punjab Legislative Assembly for the first time in 1957 under the Shiromani Akali Dal party. He was subsequently re-elected in 1969, serving as a Minister of Community Development, Panchayati Raj, Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Fisheries. Badal held the position as the Leader of the Opposition in 1972, 1980, and 2002.

Serving the State

He was elected to the legislative assembly a total of 10 times, except for the February 1992 election, where the state elections were boycotted by the Akalis. In 1997, Badal won the Lambi constituency and went on to secure four consecutive terms. Notably, Badal also served as a Union Minister in Morarji Desai's government in 1977.

The Dark Phase and Efforts for Unity

The Assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi

The assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1984 marked a low point for peace in Punjab. During this period, 20,000 Hindus and Sikhs were killed by terrorists. The situation worsened in 1987 when 34 Hindus were killed in a bus attack in Haryana and 38 in another in Punjab. This period saw a deepening divide between Hindus and Sikhs, with many Hindus fleeing the state.

Reconciliation Efforts

In response to the dark phase, Prakash Singh Badal initiated a remarkable effort to heal the breach between Hindus and Sikhs. Badal, along with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), formed a government in 1997 on the issue of Hindu-Sikh brotherhood. This decision was driven by the need to foster unity and rebuild trust.

Political Pork Barreling and Caste Neutrality

Despite political rivalries, Badal committed to including BJP ministers in his cabinet, underlining his commitment to unity. Manoranjan Kalia, a BJP leader, became a minister in this government. Kalia highlights that when the coalition was formed, it instilled a sense of hope among Hindus.

Personal Circumstances and Leadership

The Rush for Marriage

A touching personal anecdote underscores Badal's approachability and commitment to unity. On the occasion of his daughter's marriage, he could not attend due to his detention in South India. His kin suggested that a parole could be granted. Badal, in a selfless move, insisted that his elder brother in Haryana, Devi Lal, perform all wedding rituals. True to his word, Devi Lal fulfilled Badal's request, demonstrating the deep trust and respect that Badal commanded.

Legacy and Controversies

Posthumous Controversy

Despite his significant contributions to Hindu-Sikh unity, Badal faced backlash in 2015 when the award "Panth Ratan Fakhr-e-Kaum" was withdrawn by the Sikh Panth. The withdrawal was due to allegations of civil rights violations and failure to acknowledge the persecution faced by Sikhs in Punjab. This controversy overshadowed some of his previous honors and efforts towards unity.

Legacies of Greatness

The legacy of Parkash Singh Badal is one of relentless pursuit of unity and reconciliation, despite the challenges posed by political and societal tensions. His efforts towards Hindu-Sikh brotherhood and his inclusive approach to governance stand as a beacon of hope for future generations in Punjab.

Conclusion

Prakash Singh Badal's life and work offer a compelling narrative of a political leader who defied odds and strove for peace and unity. His memory will continue to inspire those who believe in the power of reconciliation and the strength of community.

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