Amritsar | January 15, 2026
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appeared before the Akal Takht Secretariat in Amritsar on Thursday after being summoned by Sikh clergy over alleged remarks related to Sikh institutions. The visit marked a politically and spiritually sensitive moment, as the Akal Takht holds the highest temporal authority in Sikhism.
Mann had reached Amritsar a day earlier and began his morning by offering prayers at the Golden Temple. Wearing a yellow turban, he entered the shrine through the traditional Ghanta Ghar gate at around 11:16 am and paid obeisance before proceeding to the Akal Takht Secretariat.
At 11:32 am, the Chief Minister entered the Secretariat premises, where special arrangements had been made in anticipation of the meeting. Officials confirmed that extra staff and security were deployed as per the directions of officiating Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj.
The controversy revolves around remarks allegedly made by Mann that were perceived by some Sikh groups as derogatory to Sikh institutions and traditions. Following the complaints, the Akal Takht summoned the Chief Minister to seek his explanation. Given the Akal Takht’s moral and religious authority, the move has drawn significant attention across Punjab.
The meeting was initially scheduled for 10 am but was later shifted to 4.30 pm because President Droupadi Murmu was visiting Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar on the same day. However, Mann stated that he had cancelled all his engagements, including those connected to the President’s visit, and had informed the President’s office in advance that he would devote the entire day to responding to the Akal Takht’s summons. Later, sources said a mutual understanding was reached, and the Chief Minister was asked to reach the Secretariat around noon.
One of the notable moments was when Mann arrived carrying two bags, which his team said contained documents and material related to his defence. These reportedly include evidence linked to the recovery of 139 missing saroops of the Guru Granth Sahib, recently traced by a Special Investigation Team at a religious place in Majara Nau Abad village near Banga.
Sources indicated that the proceedings would not be telecast live. It is also likely that the Jathedar may ask the Chief Minister to submit a written reply addressing the allegations of religious misconduct. Mann was also expected to walk barefoot to the Secretariat as a mark of respect, reflecting the gravity of the occasion.
A sitting Chief Minister appearing before the Akal Takht is a rare and highly sensitive event in Punjab’s public life. It underlines the deep connection between governance and faith in the state, where religious institutions continue to hold immense moral authority.
The outcome of the interaction is now awaited, as it is expected to have a significant impact on both the political climate and the wider Sikh community in the days ahead.