Akali Dal leaders slam Govt on Flood Relief; Amritpal rejects BJP link

October 1, 2025

Amritsar: Akali Dal leader and pro-Khalistan MP Amritpal Singh’s father, Tarsem Singh, along with party leaders, on Monday criticized the central and Punjab governments for their handling of recent floods, highlighting the lack of relief and rehabilitation measures for affected families.

Speaking at a press conference in Amritsar, Tarsem Singh described the plight of flood-hit areas, particularly in the Khadoor Sahib constituency, as “ignored and neglected.” He accused both governments of focusing on political blame rather than providing immediate assistance. He noted that no special assembly session had been convened and no concrete relief package had been announced to support victims.

“Many areas were badly affected, yet relief has not reached them, nor has any special rehabilitation plan been implemented,” he said. Tarsem Singh emphasized that the relief work carried out so far was solely through the cooperation of Sangats, with no support from MPs’ funds or government resources.

The press conference also addressed speculation regarding Amritpal Singh potentially joining the BJP. Tarsem Singh strongly dismissed such rumors, stating, “It is impossible for Amritpal to join the BJP. People are being misled by spreading these rumors. Amritpal will always stand for the rights and justice of Punjab.”

On preparations for the 2027 Punjab assembly elections, Tarsem Singh said that Waris Punjab has begun full-scale organizational work. District-level units have been formed, and a door-to-door campaign is underway. The party will select candidates based on public opinion rather than imposing names, and it aims to strengthen public trust and safeguard Punjab’s rights.

Regarding potential candidates, he clarified that Paramjit Kaur, whose name had been discussed, is currently abroad, making her participation unlikely.

Tarsem Singh reiterated the party’s commitment to supporting flood-affected communities through Sangats and grassroots mobilization, emphasizing that this collective effort had been critical in addressing immediate needs amid governmental inaction.