CHANDIGARH, APRIL 25 — Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal offered emotional tributes to the late Parkash Singh Badal on Saturday, marking three years since the passing of the five-time Punjab Chief Minister. The veteran leader, often referred to as the patriarch of state politics, died on April 25, 2023, at the age of 95.
Sukhbir Singh Badal stated that the legacy of his father remains a guiding force for the party and the people of Punjab. Harsimrat Kaur Badal noted the late leader’s deep connection with the grassroots, describing him as a statesman who dedicated his life to the welfare of the common man. Unlike previous years, the family did not organize a large-scale religious gathering at the memorial in their native village of Badal, as they are currently traveling abroad.
The anniversary has renewed focus on the status of the ‘Sardar Parkash Singh Badal Skill India Centre.’ The National Skill Development Corporation announced the project during last year’s anniversary as a tribute to the former Chief Minister’s vision for youth empowerment. However, local residents observed that the centre has yet to become operational at the ground level despite a year having passed since the official declaration.
Throughout the day, numerous Akali Dal leaders and supporters shared messages on social media, recalling the administrative contributions of the late leader. Some party members maintained that future commemorations should be held on a larger scale to celebrate his lifelong service to the state. The absence of a formal event in the village this year was attributed by sources to the family’s prior international commitments.
