Canada-based Jagman Samra has denied allegations that a person wearing a mask resembling Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's face in a controversial video was him. The clarification comes amid a political row over the authenticity of the clip.
Mann's Denial and Mask Claim
On Thursday, Mann asserted that he was not the individual in the alleged video. He claimed that the person seen in the clip was wearing a mask designed to mimic his facial features, suggesting a deliberate attempt to impersonate him.
The video, which surfaced online, purportedly shows Mann in a compromising situation. However, the Chief Minister has dismissed it as doctored or staged, calling for an investigation into its origins.
Jagman Samra's Response
Jagman Samra, a Canada-based individual, issued a statement denying any involvement. According to reports, Samra said he had no connection to the video or the mask, and he condemned the misuse of his name in the controversy.
“I am not the person in the video, and I have no knowledge of any mask being used. This is a baseless allegation,” Samra was quoted as saying by local media.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked political tensions in Punjab. Opposition parties have demanded a thorough probe, while the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has dismissed the video as a fake aimed at defaming Mann.
Mann’s office has stated that legal action will be taken against those responsible for creating and circulating the video. The Punjab Police have reportedly launched an inquiry into the matter.
Impact and Next Steps
The controversy has drawn attention to the use of deepfake technology and impersonation in political smear campaigns. Experts have called for stricter regulations to prevent such incidents.
As the investigation continues, both Mann and Samra have urged the public not to spread unverified information. The case highlights the growing challenges of digital misinformation in Indian politics.
