In a significant political development in Punjab, Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Banga, Sukhwinder Kumar Sukhi, has resigned from his position as Chairman of the Punjab Warehousing Corporation, thereby relinquishing the Cabinet rank granted to him. The move is being seen as a setback for the ruling party at a time when it is navigating sensitive political and religious issues in the state.
Dr Sukhi’s resignation comes in the wake of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s recent statement concerning the 169 saroops at Sri Raja Sahib’s Darbar, which sparked reactions across political and religious circles. Though Dr Sukhi has not issued an elaborate public statement after stepping down, he had earlier maintained that the matter should be resolved through dialogue with the government rather than confrontation.
Sources indicate that the decision reflects his disagreement over the handling of the issue, even as he chose to step away from his administrative role with restraint. Despite resigning from the post, Dr Sukhi continues to serve as the MLA from Banga, keeping his legislative position intact.
The development is politically important for the Aam Aadmi Party, as Dr Sukhi is considered a senior and experienced leader with strong influence in the Doaba region. His exit from a Cabinet-rank position has raised questions about internal coordination within the party and the broader impact of faith-related controversies on governance.
Dr Sukhwinder Kumar Sukhi’s political career spans several decades. He began his journey with the Bahujan Samaj Party in the 1990s, later joined the Shiromani Akali Dal, and eventually switched to the Aam Aadmi Party in 2024. His move to AAP was seen as a strategic gain for the party ahead of key political realignments in Punjab.
Political observers believe that while the resignation may not immediately destabilize the Mann government, it underlines the challenges AAP faces in balancing administration, public sentiment, and internal dissent. Whether party leadership will initiate efforts to address Dr Sukhi’s concerns or re-engage him in governance remains to be seen.