I was an Akali, I am an Akali, and I will remain an Akali' : MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali

I was an Akali, I am an Akali, and I will remain an Akali' : MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali

Immediate release of 'Bandi Singhs' (imprisoned Sikhs) and MP Bhai Amritpal Singh, along with upholding the 'Anandpur Sahib Resolution', is Punjab's greatest need : MLA Ayali

Traditional politics has failed to live up to people's expectations; ideological unity is essential to save Punjab's existence : Ayali

Chandigarh 9 June ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : A significant political turning point occurred in Punjab today when Manpreet Singh Ayali, MLA from the Dakha constituency, formally announced his decision to raise his voice for the rights of the *Panth* (Sikh community), Punjab, and *Punjabiyat* (Punjabi identity). He did so from the platform of 'Akali Dal Waris Punjab De', under the leadership of Khadoor Sahib Lok Sabha MP Bhai Amritpal Singh. Bhai Amritpal Singh's father, Bapu Tarsem Singh, Faridkot MP Bhai Sarabjit Singh Khalsa, and Bhai Mandeep Singh Sidhu welcomed and praised MLA Ayali's move. Speaking to the media on this occasion, MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali stated emphatically, "I was an Akali, I am an Akali, and I will remain an Akali." He clarified that the Akali ideology is not held hostage by any single family or group of individuals; rather, it represents a historic movement for the rights of Punjab, the *Panth*, and the state.

Ayali remarked that Punjab is currently passing through a very delicate and challenging phase. The state's economy, its farming sector, its youth, its natural resources, and its social fabric are all facing severe crises. At such a time, it has become imperative to rise above old political boundaries and personal interests to raise a clear, unbiased, and resolute voice for Punjab's rights and future. Addressing *Panthic* issues, MLA Ayali spoke candidly about matters concerning the law and human rights. He expressed deep concern that Sikh prisoners (*Singhs*) who have already completed their court-mandated sentences continue to be held in jails for prolonged periods—a situation he described as a gross injustice. Additionally, he demanded the immediate release of Bhai Amritpal Singh, the Lok Sabha Member elected with a massive mandate by the people of Khadoor Sahib. He stated that in a democracy, the voice of the people is supreme, and by electing Bhai Amritpal Singh, the people of Punjab have sent a clear message to both the central and state governments. Therefore, the government must immediately release Bhai Amritpal Singh and all his associates. He noted that the Akali Dal has been consistently struggling for these legitimate demands and pledged to further strengthen this voice.

Addressing the issue of Punjab's rights alongside the release of imprisoned Sikhs, MLA Ayali prominently raised the matter of the ‘Anandpur Sahib Resolution.’ He stated that Punjab has always advocated for greater powers for states and a genuine federal structure (state autonomy). The historic ‘Anandpur Sahib Resolution’ is not merely a document but a robust shield protecting Punjab’s water, political, economic, and geographical rights. Today, the central government is increasingly encroaching upon the rights of states. In such times, vigorously upholding the Anandpur Sahib Resolution has become crucial for fighting for Punjab’s existence and rights. Highlighting the spirit of goodwill in Punjab, he remarked that the land has for centuries been a symbol of brotherhood, mutual respect, and peace, where people of all faiths and backgrounds have contributed to the state's progress. Even today, Punjab’s true strength lies in its diversity and unity. He stated firmly that communalism, hatred, or social division are not in Punjab's interest and that such elements would be staunchly opposed.

Responding to a question from journalists—"Why this alliance with the 'Waris Punjab De' platform?"—Ayali candidly stated that the people of Punjab are not merely facing the issue of changing the government or power; rather, they are confronted with the critical challenge of safeguarding Punjab’s existence, pride, and future for generations to come. For a long time, traditional politics has failed to fully live up to people's expectations; consequently, crucial issues concerning Punjab have been consistently overlooked, and the voice advocating strongly for the state's rights has weakened. Expressing concern over the state's current situation, he noted that Punjab is reeling under a massive debt burden. Issues such as unemployment, the alarming drug menace, industrial stagnation, and rural development challenges have reached critical levels. It is deeply worrying that our talented youth are migrating abroad in search of employment and a better future. In this context, the need for a political strategy that is Punjab-centric and genuinely dedicated to the people's interests is felt more acutely than ever.

MLA Ayali clarified that he chose the 'Akali Dal Waris Punjab De' platform because it fearlessly and clearly champions issues regarding Punjab's rights, democratic values, a bright future for the youth, and social justice. Only through strong and bold leadership that truly represents the sentiments and aspirations of the people of Punjab can the state be steered out of this crisis and set on a new path. Presenting a blueprint for future policies, he stated that to ensure social equality and political participation, every section of society would be granted its due share in administration and decision-making. Specific and concrete schemes would be introduced for the welfare of Dalits, backward classes, and the economically weaker sections. Furthermore, visionary policies would be formulated to promote small-scale industries and food processing units, thereby creating employment opportunities for the youth within the state itself.