Congress MP demands CM’s resignation over Akal Takht directive
Congress Lok Sabha MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla on Thursday called on Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to obey the hukumnama issued by the five Sikh high priests from Akal Takht on June 15, resign from his post, and appear before the Sikh temporal authority to seek forgiveness. Addressing the media in Amritsar, Aujla stressed that all Sikhs must respect and follow the decisions of the Akal Takht.
Aujla alleged that Mann had failed to prove his claim that a controversial video that surfaced on January 15 was generated using artificial intelligence. Despite being given nearly six months to substantiate his assertion, the Punjab Government has not provided any evidence or established his innocence, Aujla claimed.
Religious misconduct allegations
The Congress MP further accused the Chief Minister of committing serious religious misconduct by making what he termed false submissions before the Akal Takht. According to Aujla, the Sikh high priests issued the hukumnama after examining technical reports, available evidence, and public sentiment. He criticized leaders of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for allegedly questioning the authority of the Akal Takht instead of accepting its verdict and seeking forgiveness. He also claimed that the controversy surrounding purportedly fabricated reports that gave Mann a clean chit had deepened the crisis.
Gurugram police summons and separate issue of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib
Responding to questions about the summoning of certain Punjab Police officials by police in Gurugram in connection with the video case, Aujla said the matter is under investigation and that the law will take its own course. He emphasized that every Sikh is duty-bound to honor the directives of the Akal Takht. If Mann regards his position as Chief Minister as a blessing bestowed by the Guru’s grace, he should demonstrate humility by accepting the institution’s verdict and presenting his case before it. Aujla warned that challenging the authority of the Akal Takht could have adverse implications for the Sikh community.
On a separate issue, Aujla expressed concern over reported efforts by the Government of Maharashtra to amend provisions related to the management of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib under the 1956 Act. He alleged that the proposed amendments could increase government interference and expand the number of nominated members, thereby undermining the autonomy of Sikh religious institutions. Aujla claimed that similar attempts had been made in the past and said any reforms concerning the management board should be undertaken only after extensive consultations with Sikh institutions, Jathedars, and Panthic representatives. He also appealed to leaders of the BJP in Punjab and at the national level not to allow issues concerning Sikh religious sentiments to become subjects of political bargaining, stressing the need for transparency, fairness, and sensitivity.
