SGPC election on Nov 27; Akalis begin deliberations

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, November 24

In view of the SGPC annual elections for its executive body, the SAD has started conducting meetings with its members. The general house meeting to elect the next president, office-bearers and executive members is scheduled for November 27.

SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal started holding meetings with SGPC members in Chandigarh today. Members from Haryana, Mohali, Fatehgarh Sahib and Ludhiana also participated. The members apprised Sukhbir of the SGPC working and shared their views over the suitable candidates for the next term.

The SAD has called up its core committee meeting for November 25 to have further discussion over the elections and many SGPC members from Majha and Malwa are expected to attend it.

Besides, another important meeting with individuals would be held at Teja Singh Samundri Hall on November 26.

SAD spokesperson Daljit Singh Cheema said, “The core committee meeting will be held at the party office in Chandigarh at 5 pm on Monday. The purpose is to get the views from the party’s SGPC members on new chief and other office-bearers before reaching any conclusion.”

In 2011, SAD members had recorded convincing win with over 150 members elected from its side. Since the party enjoys majority in the house, the next president and other office-bearers would be from their side only. Those in the race for president’s post include the incumbent chief Gobind Singh Longowal, who will complete his second annual term, former SGPC president Bibi Jagir Kaur, senior vice-president Raghujit Singh Virk and senior leader Jathedar Tota Singh.

Statistics

190 total number of SGPC members

15nominated and five high priests of the Takhts do not participate in the voting process

170 members are elected through voting