Amritsar: In a significant development ahead of the Shiromani Akali Dal’s internal presidential election scheduled for August 11, former Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Harpreet Singh, has voluntarily withdrawn his name from consideration for the top post. His decision is being seen as a gesture of deference and unity within the party.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Giani Harpreet Singh revealed that he had been informed of his name being discussed, along with that of Bibi Satwant Kaur, as a possible contender for the presidency. Bibi Satwant Kaur is the daughter of the revered martyr, Shaheed Bhai Amrik Singh Ji.
“While I’ve come to know that both my name and that of Bibi Satwant Kaur Ji are being considered for the upcoming election, I want to clarify that I hold her in the highest regard,” Giani Harpreet Singh said. “I am not in the fray for the post of president and respectfully request the five-member committee to exclude my name from the list of potential candidates.”
The election session has been convened by a five-member committee tasked with selecting the next president of the party. The internal race had reportedly begun gaining momentum with divided support among leaders and grassroots members, some backing Giani Harpreet Singh and others favoring Bibi Satwant Kaur.
By stepping aside, Giani Harpreet Singh appears to have cleared the path for Bibi Satwant Kaur’s candidacy, reinforcing a spirit of mutual respect and solidarity within the party ranks. His withdrawal has been acknowledged by many as an example of dignified leadership, especially at a time when the party is seeking to reestablish internal cohesion and public trust.
The final decision on the next president will be taken during the scheduled election session on August 11.
