Ready to quit the moment party so wishes: Sukhbir

AMRITSAR: Amid a virtual revolt by a section of Taksali Akalis (old guard), Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal said on Sunday the SAD was nobody's personal fiefdom and he was ready to quit his post the moment the party so wishes.

“Let me tell you one thing. SAD has given me an opportunity to serve. If they will say you leave and let someone else take over, I am ready,” Badal said.

He said he was always dutybound to do whatever the party asks him and if they demand his resignation he was ready for it.

“Party is supreme, no individual is bigger than the party. I have said it on every stage that SAD is no one's personal fiefdom. Till the time party wants I will continue, the moment they want me to step down, I will do so,” he told reporters in Amritsar when asked if his leadership was being challenged by a section of Taksali leaders from Majha region.

Badal, in a bid to quell rebellious voices, said all veteran Akali leaders were his elders and he respects them.

Showing respect to senior party leaders Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Rattan Singh Ajnala and Sewa Singh Sekhwan, who have raised a banner of virtual revolt, he said he respects them and knows they have immensely contributed to the party. Badal said, “He (Ajnala) has made a big contribution for party and dedicated his entire life to it. I keep seeking guidance from him. He is my elder.”