Dhillon Accuses AAP of Negligence in Anti-Sacrilege Law Passage
Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon has leveled serious allegations against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, claiming that state ministers and party legislators consented to the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, without even reading the bill. Dhillon stated that this carelessness reflects a lack of respect for Sikh religious sentiments.
CM Bhagwant Mann Absent from Akal Takht Appearance
Dhillon pointed out that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann did not appear alongside the ministers and legislators when the Akal Takht had directed all legislators to be present. Mann, who was also an elected legislator before becoming chief minister, failed to attend this crucial matter concerning Sikh sentiments. According to Dhillon, this is yet another attempt by Mann to disrespect the Takht.
“No CM or politician can be greater than Takht Sahib. Bhagwant Mann should learn from Sikh history and, instead of creating direct confrontation with the supreme institution, should immediately appear before it and accept his mistake; otherwise, the people of Punjab will never forgive him,” Dhillon said.
Background of the Controversy
The Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, was passed by the Punjab Assembly amid controversy. The Akal Takht had earlier summoned all legislators to explain their stance on the law, which deals with the respect and handling of the Sikh holy scripture. The AAP government's handling of the issue has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties and Sikh religious leaders.
Political Reactions
Dhillon's remarks come as the BJP seeks to corner the AAP government on religious issues ahead of upcoming elections. He accused the AAP of being insensitive to Sikh faith and warned that such actions would have political consequences. The Akal Takht has not yet issued a formal response to the amendment or the absence of legislators.
