SAD president condemns Punjab’s exclusion from Republic Day parade

After BJP Punjab Chief Sunil Jakhar, Shiromani Akali Dal Chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, voiced strong discontent on Thursday over the exclusion of Punjab from the Republic Day parade set for January 26, 2024.

Expressing his objections, Badal labeled the state’s omission from the selection of tableaus for the 2024 Republic Day parade as an act of discrimination against Punjab and its people.

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Badal directly addressed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to intervene in what he termed as an unjust exclusion of Punjab from the prestigious parade. In a tweet, he stated, “I strongly urge Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene against discrimination against proud, patriotic and valorous Punjab and Punjabis through the exclusion of the state from R-Day parade.”

Badal emphasized the significance of showcasing Punjab’s rich heritage during national events. He highlighted the importance of honoring the legacy of revered figures such as the great Guru Sahiban, the Sahibzadas, and numerous heroes of the freedom struggle, including Shaheed-E-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh, Sardar Kartar Singh Sarabha, Sardar Udham Singh, and Lala Lajpat Rai.

The Shiromani Akali Dal President added, “Anyone responsible for this injustice to the land of martyrs deserves to be identified and held accountable.”