Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has said that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs and Cabinet ministers summoned by Sri Akal Takht Sahib will appear before the Sikh temporal authority tomorrow, reiterating that the party holds the institution in the highest regard.
Addressing the media, Mann stated that all legislators and ministers who have been called have been instructed to remain present before Sri Akal Takht Sahib. He added that those who have only been asked to furnish written explanations will submit their responses as directed.
Emphasising the party’s respect for Sikh religious institutions, the Chief Minister said Sri Akal Takht Sahib is supreme for them. Recalling an earlier instance, he said that when he was previously summoned, he had left an official programme attended by the President of India to present himself before the Akal Takht.
Mann said the party’s representatives would place their version before the Sikh clergy, after which the matter would rest with the religious authority. He added that the MLAs and ministers would speak to the media after the proceedings conclude tomorrow.
Responding to allegations surrounding an alleged fabricated forensic report related to a viral video linked to him, the Chief Minister claimed that the footage had been manipulated using a person wearing a mask. He said the party would submit the relevant video to Sri Akal Takht Sahib to explain that a duplicate version had been created to mislead people.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency, Mann said the party would cooperate fully with the proceedings and respect whatever process is followed by Sri Akal Takht Sahib. He maintained that all facts would be placed before the religious body for its consideration.
