Amritsar: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is scheduled to present himself before the Akal Takht secretariat at 11 am today in connection with allegations that he made remarks perceived as disrespectful to Sikh religious institutions. Mann reached Amritsar on Wednesday ahead of the appearance.
Officials at the Akal Takht confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been put in place in accordance with instructions issued by the officiating Jathedar, Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj. A senior functionary from the secretariat said the office, which normally begins operations at 9.30 am, has made special logistical preparations for the Chief Minister’s visit, including the deployment of additional staff.
The interaction was initially planned for the morning but was later shifted to the afternoon, keeping in mind the Chief Minister’s earlier schedule that included President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to Guru Nanak Dev University. However, Mann subsequently conveyed that he had withdrawn from all official engagements for the day and had already informed the President’s office, stating that his presence at the Akal Takht was a priority.
According to sources, the Chief Minister will walk barefoot to the Akal Takht secretariat as a mark of respect. It is also learnt that he has prepared a written explanation responding to the allegations levelled against him. The proceedings are expected to be conducted behind closed doors and will not be broadcast live.
There is speculation that the Jathedar may choose to receive the Chief Minister’s written submission without a detailed oral interaction during the meeting. Any further course of action, if required, is likely to be decided after examining Mann’s response to the charges of alleged religious impropriety.
The appearance has drawn significant attention, as the Akal Takht holds the highest temporal authority in Sikhism, and any summons issued by it is treated with utmost seriousness. Political observers are closely watching the developments, as the outcome could have wider implications in Punjab’s religious and political landscape.
