Amritsar: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib on Thursday and presented his clarification regarding the ongoing controversy linked to alleged videos and matters related to golaks (donation boxes). The appearance concluded after nearly 35 minutes of interaction with the Sikh clergy.
Following the proceedings, Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj announced that he would address the media at 1:30 pm from the Secretariat of Sri Akal Takht Sahib to brief them on the developments related to the Chief Minister’s appearance.
After the hearing, CM Mann addressed the media and asserted that he never intended to challenge Sri Akal Takht Sahib in any manner. “Sri Akal Takht Sahib is the highest temporal authority of Sikhs. I appeared here as a humble Sikh. I cannot even imagine challenging this supreme institution,” Mann said.
He further added that Sikhs bow their heads even upon seeing the Guru Sahib’s symbol on the road, emphasizing his deep respect for Sikh traditions and institutions. Mann said he felt satisfied after being informed by the Jathedar that his side of the matter had reached the authorities.
The Chief Minister’s appearance at the Akal Takht Secretariat officially concluded around 1:10 pm. Besides Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, Jathedar Baba Tek Singh Dhanaula was also present during the proceedings.
During the interaction, the Jathedar presented CM Bhagwant Mann with a copy of the Sikh Rehat Maryada along with a related edition of the Gurdwara Gazette published by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
The matter had drawn attention after reports related to donation boxes and an alleged video surfaced, prompting the Akal Takht Sahib to summon the Chief Minister for clarification.
Further decisions, if any, are expected after the Sikh clergy reviews the submissions made during the appearance.
