Sardar Parkash Singh Badal birth anniversary: Exploring his life, political career, family, and more
Explore the legacy and political journey of the revered figure in Punjab politics, Parkash Singh Badal, who breathed his last on April 25. Delve into this article to uncover insights into his life, political career, and lasting impact
Parkash Singh Badal birthday: Today marks the 96th birthday celebration of former Chief Minister of Punjab and Akali Dal supremo, Parkash Singh Badal. Well-wishers are extending their heartfelt congratulations to him, praying for his longevity and well-being.
Prime Minister Modi also conveyed his birthday wishes to Prakash Singh Badal through a tweet, acknowledging him as one of India's most esteemed politicians. In his congratulatory message, the Prime Minister highlighted Badal's lifelong commitment to public welfare and hailed him as an exceptional administrator. The Prime Minister concluded by expressing wishes for Badal's enduring good health and a long life ahead.
Who was Parkash Singh Badal?
A renowned Indian politician and Punjab's 8th Chief Minister
Parkash Singh Badal, an eminent Indian politician, held the esteemed position of the 8th Chief Minister of Punjab, serving consecutively for five years. Born into a Jat Sikh family on December 8, 1927, in Abul Khurana, near Malout, Badal pursued his education and obtained his diploma from Forman Christian College in Lahore.
Political Journey of Parkash Singh Badal
Parkash Singh Badal's political voyage commenced in 1947, with his early tenure as the sarpanch of Badal village before his entry into Punjab politics. His journey continued as he took on the role of the chairman for the Lambi Block Samiti.
In 1957, he found his political home in the Shiromani Akali Dal, representing the party in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha. This marked the beginning of an illustrious political career where he secured victory in four consecutive elections. His tenure as the 8th Chief Minister of Punjab spanned multiple periods: from 1970 to 1971, 1977 to 1980, 1997 to 2002, and from 2007 to 2017. Additionally, he held the role of the 11th Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare during the Morarji Desai ministry.
Throughout his journey, Badal assumed diverse responsibilities. He notably served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Legislative Assembly during several terms: from 1972 to 1977, 1980 to 1983, and from 2002 to 2007.
Aside from his political roles, Parkash Singh Badal played a pivotal part in the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), a Sikh-focused regional political entity. He supported and presided over the party as its president from 1995 to 2008.
Badal's association with the Akali movement, specifically known as the Gurdwara Reform Movement, was significant. This movement aimed to reform gurdwaras in India during the early 1920s. Its culmination led to the passage of the Sikh Gurdwara Bill in 1925, granting authority over all historical Sikh shrines in India to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). His leadership within this movement marked a crucial chapter in the history of Sikh reforms.
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Accolades and tributes to Parkash Singh Badal
Parkash Singh Badal, a figure revered in the political landscape, received recognition and accolades that echoed both pride and controversy.
Akal Takht, on December 11, 2011, honored Badal with the title "Panth Rattan Fakhr-e-Qaum," translating to "Jewel of the religion or pride of the community." However, this accolade was later retracted amid allegations of civil rights violations.
In a gesture of high esteem, President Pranab Mukherjee conferred upon Parkash Singh Badal the prestigious Padma Vibhushan on March 30, 2015. However, as a display of solidarity with the Indian farmers' protest on December 3, 2020, Badal returned this esteemed honor.
The passing of Parkash Singh Badal prompted heartfelt tributes and expressions of sorrow from various quarters. Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab's Chief Minister, expressed profound grief, acknowledging the loss of a towering figure in the province's history. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also lamented Badal's demise, terming it a personal loss. He fondly reminisced about their enduring friendship that spanned decades. The Prime Minister's tribute underlined the deep personal connection he shared with Badal, transcending political realms.
The final rites of Parkash Singh Badal are scheduled to take place on Thursday at his ancestral village, Badal, situated in the Muktsar district. The cremation ceremony is expected to draw significant attendance from political figures, dignitaries, and admirers across the state.