Chandigarh: In a major blow to Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), its former vice-president and noted Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans on Saturday joined Congress party in the presence of Punjab Caongress Captain Amarinder Singh.

Hans, who joined the Congress party at a closed function at a residence of a party MLA in Chandigarh, described the SAD and Badal family as thankless and opportunist at the same time.

Hans had campaigned for Harsimrat Kaur Badal in Bathinda Parliament constituency and helped her win the seat and had been a part of SAD for seven years, before he resigned from the post in 2014.

Hans had contested 2009 Lok Sabha polls from Jalandhar seat on SAD ticket but was defeated. At that time, he accused SAD leaders of not providing him enough support during the election.

Captain Amrinder Singh welcomed Hans in the party and also assured him of full support and respect from the party members.