Bhagwant Mann and Akal Takht's Surface Truce Hides Deeper Rifts
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently appeared at the Akal Takht Secretariat in Amritsar. He faced a summons over controversial remarks and a viral video. Many expected a heated confrontation. Instead, both sides displayed notable restraint.
A Meeting Marked by Restraint
Mann arrived at the secretariat last Thursday. He carried two bags of documents. These documents reportedly contained evidence of fund misuse by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). The CM did not make these documents public. He repeatedly emphasized his religious devotion.
"Any command or order from Sri Akal Takht Sahib Ji is acceptable to me with full reverence," Mann stated. He stressed he appeared "not as the CM, but as a humble and devout Sikh."
Acting Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj also maintained a calm demeanor. He later told reporters the interaction occurred in a "very good atmosphere." Gargajj explained, "Sri Akal Takht Sahib is the supreme seat of Sikhs. There is no animosity here against anyone. Whoever comes with humility is heard."
Underlying Tensions Persist
Despite the cordial surface, significant differences remain. The summons addressed multiple issues. These included alleged derogatory remarks about Sikh practices. Mann's objections to Guru ki Golak donations were also discussed. Alleged misinterpretations of the Sikh Rehat Maryada code of conduct formed another point of contention.
However, the central unresolved issue is a controversial viral video. The video purportedly shows Mann making inappropriate gestures. It triggered the summons and fueled allegations of him being anti-Sikh.
Sources close to the Akal Takht indicate the body believes the video is not fake. Yet, they seek scientific confirmation. A forensic investigation has been ordered.
The Forensic Investigation Process
The Akal Takht has established a specific process for the video probe. Mann has been asked to suggest two forensic laboratories of his choice. The Akal Takht will independently select two more labs. All four laboratories will examine the video's authenticity.
Their reports will determine the future course of action. This forensic process could prolong the controversy. Punjab is set to go to polls early next year, adding political significance to the timeline.
During the meeting, Gargajj and other Sikh scholars explained aspects of the Sikh code to Mann. They felt some of his statements showed inadequate understanding. Mann's personal assistant, Rajbir Singh, also received a briefing.
While Mann acknowledged some statements were inappropriate, the matter remains open. No severe religious punishment (tankhah) is likely for his remarks. The episode may not cause significant political damage either. Yet, the video issue continues to simmer.
Historical Context of Akal Takht Summons
Mann is not the first political leader summoned by the Akal Takht. Former Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal appeared before it in October 1979. After Operation Blue Star in 1984, several prominent leaders faced summons.
Former President Giani Zail Singh received a summons. Former Chief Minister Surjit Singh Barnala and former Union Home Minister Buta Singh were also called. They were declared tankhaiya, meaning religious offenders.
In 2014, senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia was declared tankhaiya. He altered a verse from the Guru Granth Sahib during a campaign speech. This controversy arguably hurt BJP leader Arun Jaitley more. He lost the Lok Sabha election to Congress leader Amarinder Singh.
Most recently in 2024, SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal faced a summons. He too was declared tankhaiya by the Akal Takht. This historical pattern shows the institution's ongoing role in Sikh temporal affairs.
Political Implications and Demands for Transparency
In the days leading to the meeting, Mann fueled anticipation. He hinted at "explosive revelations" regarding the SGPC. He publicly demanded the proceedings be broadcast live.
"I am receiving messages from all over the world," Mann posted on X. He called for transparency "penny by penny" regarding Golak accounts. He wanted live telecast on all channels.
The current truce appears only surface deep. While both sides exercised restraint, the forensic investigation into the viral video ensures the controversy continues. With state elections approaching, this issue could influence Punjab's political landscape in the coming months.
