Amritsar (Gurpreet Singh): The Acting Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib on Thursday announced that a forensic probe will be conducted into a controversial video circulating on social media in connection with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, even as the Chief Minister’s explanation on related concerns has been accepted.
After holding a meeting with the Chief Minister, the Acting Jathedar told reporters that the video will be subjected to scientific examination at two recognised forensic laboratories, the names of which have been sought from the Chief Minister. He said the objective of the investigation is to establish facts with complete transparency and place the truth before the Sikh community.
Emphasising the responsibility of Akal Takht Sahib, the Acting Jathedar said that when allegations involve a person holding a high constitutional office, accountability becomes even more essential. He noted that clarifications were sought from the Chief Minister regarding issues related to religious donations (golak), Sikh Rehat Maryada, and the authenticity of the viral video.
While the Chief Minister’s explanation has been acknowledged, the Acting Jathedar said the forensic verification of the video remains necessary to remove all doubts. He also advised the Chief Minister to refrain from commenting publicly on matters related to Sikh Rehat Maryada unless he has complete understanding of its principles. The Chief Minister assured that he would avoid making statements on Sikh religious issues in the future.
The Acting Jathedar further informed that the Chief Minister was provided with an official Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) gazette detailing income and expenditure. He encouraged the Chief Minister to review the document personally and share it with other leaders to prevent misinformation. He reiterated that Akal Takht Sahib remains impartial and welcomes everyone with respect, without prejudice.
He added that any further action will be decided after a collective meeting of the five Singh Sahibans, which will be convened shortly. Decisions or directions, he said, will be issued only after due deliberation.
Remarks on Sacred Saroops Issue
Commenting on concerns related to the handling of sacred saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the Acting Jathedar said the government appeared to have acted hastily. He explained that historically, sacred saroops have been printed and installed by various authorised religious institutions, and many gurdwaras, especially in villages, do not possess formal receipts or serial records.
He stressed that the sanctity of a saroop does not depend on documentation but on the respect with which it is installed and maintained. He added that while earlier devotees often offered saroops to gurdwaras as part of religious vows, stricter procedures were later introduced following incidents of sacrilege. Disciplinary action, he said, has already been taken against those found responsible for past lapses.
