Chandigarh: In a major political setback for the fledgling Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit), senior SGPC member and prominent Taksali leader Karnail Singh Panjoli has resigned from the party. His departure follows the recent formation of the outfit led by Giani Harpreet Singh, which had been positioned as a reformist Panthic alternative to the traditional leadership.
While the resignation note formally cites personal reasons, the exit of such a high-profile figure underscores deep-seated dissatisfaction within the new party’s ranks. Panjoli, a veteran of Sikh politics and a former associate of the Shiromani Akali Dal (Badal), had been a key face in the party’s initial effort to consolidate the Panthic vote.
Reasons for the Departure
According to a detailed social media post shared by Panjoli, his decision was fueled by several grievances:
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Marginalization: Panjoli stated that despite fulfilling his role as a state delegate and participating in the election of the party president, he was not assigned any meaningful responsibilities or a role in the party’s decision-making process thereafter.
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Internal Friction: He alleged that certain individuals within the party had targeted his social standing, caste, and financial interests. He claimed he had endured these challenges for the sake of “Panthic unity” until a final incident on February 22, 2026, prompted his exit.
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Direction of the Party: Observers suggest Panjoli was unhappy with the continued dominance of traditional senior leaders, which he felt contradicted the party’s stated mission of institutional reform.
Impact on Giani Harpreet Singh’s Leadership
This resignation comes at a critical time for Giani Harpreet Singh, who was elected president of the breakaway faction on August 11, 2025. The party is currently preparing for a massive Panthic gathering in Fatehgarh Sahib on February 27, 2026, and intends to release its formal agenda during the Hola Mohalla celebrations at Anandpur Sahib on March 3.
Panjoli’s exit is viewed as a significant loss of credibility for the party’s “Punar Surjit” (Revival) mission, especially among the Taksali and reform-minded segments of the Sikh community. Panjoli clarified that since he held no formal office, he should simply no longer be considered a member of the organization, though he offered his thanks for the brief journey shared with the leadership.
