Shiromani Akali Dal
Also called: Akali Dal · Topic: Regional Aspirations: J&K, Punjab, the North-East and Accommodation · NCERT: Class 12, Ch 5 "Challenges to and Restoration of the Congress System"; Class 12, Ch 7 "Regional Aspirations"
Meaning
The Shiromani Akali Dal (often just "Akali Dal") is a Sikh political party formed in 1920 as the political wing of the Sikhs. It led the Punjabi Suba movement, the campaign for a Punjabi-speaking state that was won in 1966. Its 1973 Anandpur Sahib Resolution asked for more regional autonomy, meaning more powers for the states. It matters because its history shows both moderate regional politics and how control could pass to extremists.
Example
The Akalis ruled Punjab in 1967 and 1977, both times in coalition, and they felt insecure in power. Their government was dismissed by the Centre midway through its term. They also had little Hindu support. In July 1985 its president, Harchand Singh Longowal, signed the Punjab Accord with Rajiv Gandhi. Longowal was assassinated within weeks. In 1997 the Akali Dal (Badal)-BJP alliance won the state election.