Akal Takht calls Haryana Police case on Punjab CM Mann video 'serious'
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The Akal Takht has described the case registered by Haryana Police — concerning the alleged preparation of fake forensic reports linked to an objectionable video of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann — as a matter of grave concern. The Takht had previously declared Mann 'Guru Dokhi' and Khalsa Panth 'virodhi', making this development a significant escalation in the ongoing standoff between the Punjab government and the highest temporal seat of Sikhism.
Akal Takht's Official Position
Jaskaran Singh, media advisor to the Akal Takht secretariat, issued a formal statement asserting that history bears witness to the consequences faced by those who have challenged Sri Akal Takht Sahib. He said that while individuals may deceive others in worldly matters, 'no one can deceive the Guru Sahib or His true Takht.' The statement reflects the Takht's view that the controversy is not merely political but carries deep religious weight.
Second Video Surfaces Against CM Mann
Jaskaran Singh also disclosed that a second video of Chief Minister Mann has reportedly surfaced, in which he is allegedly heard using highly objectionable language against Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the Guru Khalsa Panth. The authenticity of this video has not been independently verified, and the claims remain attributed to the Akal Takht secretariat.
Criticism of the Punjab Government
The Akal Takht's media advisor said the manner in which the Mann-led Punjab government allegedly attempted to deceive Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the Sikh community reflects, in his words, 'the politics of a very low standard.' He called on every Sikh, follower of Guru Nanak, and Punjabi to remain alert and aware of these developments. He added that all those involved in the alleged conspiracy should look into their conscience, warning that 'those who turn away from the Guru find support nowhere, and that such a stain remains for generations.'
Call for Strict Investigation
Jaskaran Singh urged Haryana Police to pursue the matter with complete seriousness, expose every individual involved in the alleged conspiracy, and ensure strict punishment for those found culpable. This comes amid broader tensions between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government and Sikh religious institutions, with the Akal Takht having previously issued a religious decree against the Chief Minister. The case raises questions about the intersection of political authority and religious accountability in Punjab's complex socio-political landscape.