Former Akali Leader Joins AAP, Cites Personal Beliefs Over Political Deals

Chandigarh, September 22 (Daily Kiran) : Former legislator Ravinder Singh Brahmpura has officially joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) after being expelled from the Shiromani Akali Dal. In a ceremony in Chandigarh, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann welcomed him into the party. Brahmpura emphasized that his decision was based on personal conviction rather than any political deal.

Reflecting on his family’s long-standing association with the Akali Dal, Brahmpura noted, “My father served the Shiromani Akali Dal for 70 years, holding positions as a five-time legislator, two-time minister, and once as an MP. I too was a legislator. Our family has a rich history, but what’s done is done. They expelled us from the party, and now I have joined AAP. There was no deal involved; it was purely a matter of personal belief. I decided to join AAP the moment I left the Akali Dal. I am joining as a party worker.”

Brahmpura criticized the current leadership of the Akali Dal, claiming that those who speak the truth are sidelined. He remarked, “Anyone who tells the truth in the Akali Dal is pushed aside. This isn’t just about the Brahmpura family; many families have faced similar treatment. Such behavior hinders the growth of the party and has caused significant damage to it.”

He further explained that individuals who leave a party often seek alternatives that align with their values. “People join the party they resonate with,” he added.

Brahmpura expressed admiration for Chief Minister Mann’s initiatives, particularly highlighting a bill passed in the assembly aimed at restoring the sanctity of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib. “I decided to join AAP because their vision is commendable. I posted about this on Facebook, and it received a positive response from many.”

Addressing the issues of drugs and gang violence in Punjab, he criticized past governments for their inaction despite promises to tackle these problems. “Drugs and gangsters have wreaked havoc in Punjab. Previous governments pledged to solve the drug issue but failed to deliver. The Aam Aadmi Party, especially under CM Bhagwant Mann, has launched a campaign against drugs and has achieved significant success.”