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Religion
SAD leader Punar Surjit slams Ram Rahim’s furlough as ‘salt on Sikhs’ wounds’
✍️ The Times Of India
🗓 26 Aug 2026, 02:45 PM
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Shiromani Akali Dal’s Punar Surjit condemned the recent furlough of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Ram Rahim, calling it an aggravation of Sikh community’s hurt.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Punar Surjit publicly denounced the recent decision to grant furlough to Dera Sacha Sauda chief Ram Rahim, describing it as “salt on the wounds of Sikhs.” His remarks were made during a press briefing in which he highlighted the deep hurt felt by the Sikh community over the episode.
Ram Rahim, who was convicted in 2019 for the murder of a journalist, has been a polarising figure across India. His release, even on a temporary basis, has sparked protests from several Sikh organisations that view his actions as an affront to their religious sentiments.
Surjit urged the central and state authorities to reconsider the furlough, warning that it could inflame communal tensions and undermine the rule of law. He called for a swift and transparent legal process that respects the sensitivities of all communities involved.
Ram Rahim, who was convicted in 2019 for the murder of a journalist, has been a polarising figure across India. His release, even on a temporary basis, has sparked protests from several Sikh organisations that view his actions as an affront to their religious sentiments.
Surjit urged the central and state authorities to reconsider the furlough, warning that it could inflame communal tensions and undermine the rule of law. He called for a swift and transparent legal process that respects the sensitivities of all communities involved.