Amritsar: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has once again sparked controversy with sharp remarks targeting Sikh religious institutions, raising questions over the functioning of jathedars and the leadership of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), despite having recently assured restraint on such statements.
Addressing a state-level programme at the grain market in the Majitha constituency of Amritsar, Mann made comments that were perceived as objectionable by religious and political circles. His remarks questioned the process through which jathedars are appointed or removed and how religious pardons are granted or withdrawn, triggering strong reactions from panthic organisations.
The controversy has gained significance as Mann had appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib on January 15, where he publicly assured that he would refrain from making such statements in the future. At the time, the Chief Minister had said he appeared as a humble Sikh and had no intention of challenging the authority of the Akal Takht, adding that any decision taken by the Sikh clergy would be accepted with full respect.
However, during the Majitha event, Mann claimed that he was being falsely accused of interfering in religious affairs. He asserted that he neither had the authority nor the intention to do so, and instead accused others of misusing religious institutions for personal and political interests. He alleged that the manipulation of jathedar appointments and religious decisions had been carried out by others long before his tenure.
The Chief Minister also made pointed remarks against SGPC president Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami, suggesting that if Dhami intended to actively participate in politics, he should first resign from his position. Mann further alleged that for years, political narratives were built by misleading the public, but contradictions within those claims were now coming to light.
Reacting strongly, SGPC executive committee member Gurpreet Singh Jabbar condemned Mann’s remarks, describing them as disrespectful and irresponsible. He said such statements undermine the sanctity of Sikh institutions and create unnecessary tension between the government and religious bodies.
Earlier, after Mann’s appearance before the Akal Takht, acting Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargajj had told the media that the Chief Minister had expressed regret over his past remarks on religious matters and had assured that he would avoid such commentary in the future.
The latest statements have once again reignited political and religious debate in Punjab, with panthic groups demanding consistency and accountability from the Chief Minister.
