Former Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar on Thursday launched a sharp attack on Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, questioning why the CM did not depose before Sri Akal Takht as a humble Sikh on the viral video issue. Jakhar accused Mann of arrogance, stating that the matter is already under consideration at the highest Sikh temporal authority.
Jakhar's Challenge to Mann
“Bhagwant Mann ji, if you had any facts, you should have presented them before Sri Akal Takht Sahib as a humble Sikh, because this matter is already under consideration there,” Jakhar said. He added, “Either you lack the courage to face the truth, or this is your arrogance due to which you are holding one press conference after another in this manner to show yourself low before Sri Akal Takht Sahib.”
Jakhar remarked that the arrogant one is always struck down, referencing a traditional Sikh saying. The BJP has demanded Mann's resignation over the issue and dared the Punjab Police to book the CM under the state's anti-sacrilege law.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy stems from a viral video that allegedly shows Mann in a compromising situation. The CM has denied the video's authenticity, claiming it is fabricated to malign his image. However, the BJP has seized on the issue, calling for a thorough investigation and Mann's resignation.
Jakhar had earlier asked Mann to resign and face the people, drawing a parallel with his party chief Arvind Kejriwal's resignation in Delhi over a similar controversy. The BJP's demand for Mann's resignation under the anti-sacrilege law adds a religious dimension to the political dispute.
Political Implications
The clash between Jakhar and Mann highlights the intensifying political battle in Punjab ahead of the next assembly elections. The BJP is trying to corner the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government on issues of religious sensitivity and governance. Mann, on his part, has maintained that the video is doctored and has accused the BJP of a conspiracy to defame him.
The matter is now before Sri Akal Takht, which is expected to issue a ruling. The Sikh clergy's decision could have significant political repercussions for Mann and the AAP government in Punjab.
