Chandigarh: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president and former deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal on Friday visited the residence of farmer leader Balbir Singh Rajewal, triggering speculation in political circles. Former minister Sikandar Singh Maluka was also present during the meeting.
The meeting has drawn attention as farmer unions remain upset with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab. Chief minister Bhagwant Mann has repeatedly criticised farmers’ road blockades, while the Punjab Police recently removed a sit-in protest at the Shambhu border.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Sukhbir Badal said he had come to enquire about Rajewal’s health. He recalled that his father, former chief minister Parkash Singh Badal, often consulted Rajewal on agriculture and Punjab’s issues.
“Rajewal ji is a treasure trove of knowledge about farming. I came to learn from him about how agriculture can be made profitable and how Punjab can be saved. There was no political discussion,” Sukhbir said.
Rajewal too described it as a personal meeting. He added that when a split in the Akali Dal took place in the past, he had suggested uniting the factions. “Apart from that, no political discussion was held today,” he clarified.
