Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appeared before the Akal Takht Secretariat in Amritsar on Thursday after being summoned over his alleged remarks related to Sikh religious traditions, including the sensitive issue of “Golak.” The appearance marked a significant moment, as the highest temporal seat of Sikhism examined the conduct of a sitting chief minister on matters of faith.
Before submitting his clarification, Mann visited Sri Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple, where he offered prayers. The Chief Minister later told reporters that he had placed his explanation before Akal Takht’s officiating Jathedar, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, and said he would respect and comply with any directive issued by the Sikh religious authority.
“I came here as a devout Sikh and have given my clarification. I will obey whatever decision the Akal Takht takes,” Mann said while addressing the media after his meeting.
Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Giani Gargaj later confirmed that during their interaction, the Chief Minister admitted that he should not have made certain statements concerning Sikh religious affairs. According to the Jathedar, Mann acknowledged his mistake and assured him that he would avoid making such remarks in the future.
The Jathedar said the explanation submitted by the Chief Minister would now be presented before a meeting of the five Sikh high priests, who will collectively examine the matter and decide on the next course of action.
A key development in the case is the decision to conduct a forensic examination of the viral video that allegedly shows Mann making controversial remarks. Giani Gargaj said the authenticity of the video must be verified before any conclusions are drawn. He added that the forensic probe would help establish whether the footage being circulated is genuine or manipulated.
The Akal Takht also clarified the nature of its authority in such matters. Jathedar Gargaj stated that an apostate Sikh cannot be directly punished by the Takht, but directions can be issued to the Sikh community based on the findings. Any decision in the case, he said, would be in the form of guidance to the Sikh sangat rather than punitive action against the Chief Minister.
The issue has drawn widespread attention across Punjab, where religious institutions play a powerful role in public life. Mann’s appearance before the Akal Takht has been viewed as a serious and sensitive step, reflecting both the gravity of the allegations and the influence of Sikh religious leadership.
Political observers believe the outcome of the proceedings will be closely watched, as it could shape how political leaders address religious matters in the future. The final decision will be taken after the five Sikh high priests review Mann’s explanation and the forensic report of the viral video.
For now, the matter remains under consideration, with the Akal Takht set to announce its directions once the full process is completed.