Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann denies “Objectionable Video” claim, calls Akal Takht edict false propaganda
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has strongly rejected the Akal Takht’s recent edict declaring him “Guru Dokhi” and “Khalsa Panth virodhi,” asserting that the person seen in the controversial video is not him and calling the allegations part of a “false propaganda campaign.”
In a video message released on Tuesday, Mann expressed surprise over the top Sikh religious authorities issuing an edict against him based on what he described as a misleading and politically motivated narrative. He said the individual seen in the circulating video does not resemble him in appearance or physique and firmly denied any association with the footage.
Mann alleged that the controversy is being used to defame him at the behest of political interests. He also questioned the role and appointment process of the Akal Takht leadership, suggesting that decisions being taken from the religious platform are influenced by political considerations.
The dispute stems from earlier proceedings in which the Akal Takht had summoned Mann over alleged remarks related to “Guru ki Golak” and an objectionable video that was claimed to contain images of Sikh Gurus and Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. The Sikh clergy later stated that forensic analysis had found the video to be authentic and not AI-generated or tampered with.
Reacting to the edict, Mann reiterated that he has always respected the Akal Takht as the supreme temporal seat of Sikhism, but said he cannot accept what he described as unfair targeting. He added that religion should not be used for political purposes or to malign elected representatives.
The Chief Minister also pointed to what he called inconsistencies in past decisions of religious authorities, particularly on issues related to sacrilege laws and political accountability. He claimed that shifting positions on such matters raise questions about intent and consistency.
Mann further asserted that his government remains focused on issues concerning Punjab, including governance, agriculture, water resources, and youth welfare. He said he will continue working for the state despite criticism and controversies.
The Akal Takht had earlier issued directions summoning Punjab MLAs and cabinet members for further proceedings linked to the anti-sacrilege law, adding another layer to the ongoing tension between the state government and Sikh religious authorities.
The matter remains politically sensitive, with responses from various stakeholders expected in the coming days.
