Former Punjab Minister Surjit Singh Rakhra officially joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) at a public event in Samana town. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann personally welcomed Rakhra into the party, along with his family and numerous supporters. Mann praised Rakhra’s decision to prioritize public service over personal interests, emphasizing the significance of his entry into the AAP.
Rakhra, who had previously attempted to reform the Shiromani Akali Dal from within, expressed his reasons for leaving the party. He cited concerns over the party’s direction and its involvement in controversial incidents. In response, Chief Minister Mann highlighted the need for experienced and ethical individuals like Rakhra to contribute to Punjab’s development and governance.
Addressing the gathering, Rakhra thanked Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the AAP leadership for accepting him into the party. He explained that his departure from the Shiromani Akali Dal was motivated by issues related to sacrilege and the introduction of a new law addressing such offenses. Rakhra emphasized the importance of legislation against sacrilege, which he had actively supported during his time with the Samana Morcha.
