The Delhi BJP has demanded the resignation of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, accusing him of disrespecting Sikh religious traditions and then attempting to mislead the public through a questionable forensic report regarding a controversial video.
Allegations of Disrespect and Misleading Report
Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra, speaking at a press conference alongside Yamuna Vikas Board chairman Arvinder Singh Lovely on Wednesday, questioned why the Punjab government relied on a private laboratory to examine the video when, according to him, Sri Akal Takht had already obtained an examination through government laboratories. Malhotra claimed that a video surfaced months ago allegedly showing Mann violating Sikh religious norms, and Sri Akal Takht subsequently held the Chief Minister responsible.
Malhotra further alleged that while the Punjab government dismissed these findings and claimed the video was fake, recent developments have cast doubt on the credibility of the private laboratory report that reportedly cleared Mann. Referring to media reports, Malhotra claimed that the owner of the laboratory alleged the report was prepared under pressure from Punjab Police officials and after being offered financial inducements.
Questioning the Investigation Process
“The question arises that when Sri Akal Takht Sahib got the video examined through a government laboratory, why did the Punjab government conduct an investigation through a private laboratory?” Malhotra said, adding that the Punjabi community across the country now wanted Mann to step down as Chief Minister. Arvinder Singh Lovely emphasized that the controversy is not merely political but linked to the religious sentiments of the Sikh community. He noted that many prominent political leaders and public officials have appeared before the Akal Takht in the past and alleged that attempts are now being made to challenge its authority.
Criticism of AAP Leadership
Lovely also criticized Aam Aadmi Party national convener Arvind Kejriwal for remaining silent on the issue and alleged that the Punjab government misused official machinery to protect the Chief Minister. The BJP leaders have called for Mann's resignation, citing the need to uphold religious sanctity and public trust.
