Key Facts
The Akal Takht, the highest temporal authority of Sikhs, has declared Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann as 'Guru Dokhi' (anti-Guru) and 'Khalsa Panth Virodhi' (anti-Khalsa Panth) following a controversial viral video. The video allegedly shows a man resembling Mann consuming alcohol and splashing it on pictures of Sikh Gurus. Two central government-recognised forensic laboratories have confirmed that the video is genuine and not AI-generated.
Details of the Controversy
The row began earlier this year after a complaint accused Mann of making remarks about 'Guru ki Golak' and acting objectionably with photographs of Sikh Gurus and slain militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale in a viral video. Mann had previously appeared before the Akal Takht in January, claiming the video was fake and created using AI. However, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj stated that Mann did not respond to requests to suggest forensic labs for examination. The Akal Takht then got the video examined by two labs, both of which found it to be genuine.
Mann's Response
In a video message, Mann categorically denied being the person in the clip. "I completely reject this video," he said, adding that the person seen does not match his height and physique. He accused his political opponents of spreading a smear campaign to defame him. "They are indulging in mudslinging to defame me because I am taking decisions for the protection of water, 'gurbani', farming and the youth," Mann said. He reiterated his respect for the Akal Takht but questioned appointments within religious bodies.
AAP's Reaction
The ruling AAP questioned the forensic findings, with leader Baltej Singh Pannu noting that the reports did not identify the person in the video. "The report nowhere states who the person visible in the video actually is," Pannu said, questioning the height and location of the footage. He accused the Shiromani Akal Dal (SAD) of politicising Sikh institutions.
Opposition Demands Resignation
Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring demanded Mann's immediate resignation, stating that after being declared a 'tankhaiya' and with the Sikh community directed to shun ties, Mann has lost the moral authority to continue as chief minister. "Respecting the supreme authority of Akal Takht Sahib and Sikh sentiments, Bhagwant Mann should immediately resign from the post of chief minister," Warring wrote.
Akal Takht's Edict
Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj announced the edict, saying, "The Guru Khalsa Panth cannot tolerate such actions under any circumstances." The Sikh clergy directed the community to shun ties with Mann and summoned all Sikh MLAs and Punjab Cabinet members (except Mann) to appear before the Akal Takht on June 29. Explanations have also been sought from non-Sikh ministers. The Akal Takht also criticised the Punjab government's Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, alleging it was passed without proper consultation.
What Readers Should Know
- The viral video has been confirmed as genuine by two forensic labs, ruling out AI manipulation.
- Bhagwant Mann maintains his innocence, claiming the video is a smear campaign.
- Akal Takht has declared Mann 'Guru Dokhi' and directed Sikhs to avoid associating with him.
- Opposition parties are demanding Mann's resignation, while AAP questions the forensic report's identification.
- Sikh MLAs and Cabinet members have been summoned to appear before Akal Takht on June 29.
FAQ
Why did Akal Takht declare Bhagwant Mann as 'Guru Dokhi'?
Akal Takht declared Bhagwant Mann 'Guru Dokhi' after two central government-recognised forensic labs confirmed that a viral video showing a man resembling Mann disrespecting Sikh Gurus is genuine and not AI-generated.
What did Bhagwant Mann say about the viral video?
Bhagwant Mann denied being the person in the video, claiming it does not match his height and physique. He accused political opponents of spreading a smear campaign.
What action has Akal Takht taken against Bhagwant Mann?
Akal Takht has directed the Sikh community to shun ties with Mann and summoned all Sikh MLAs and Cabinet members to appear before it on June 29.
What is the political reaction to the Akal Takht's declaration?
Opposition parties, including Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, have demanded Mann's resignation, while AAP has questioned the forensic findings and accused SAD of politicising Sikh institutions.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com