Akal Takht Calls Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann 'Guru Drohi' Over Viral Video

Amritsar: Punjab's political landscape has been shaken by a controversy involving Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The Akal Takht Sahib, the highest religious authority for Sikhs, has issued a stern decision, labeling Mann as "Guru Drohi" (traitor to the Guru) and "Khalsa Panth Virodhi" (anti-Khalsa Panth). The institution has urged the Sikh community to distance themselves from the Chief Minister. This decision has ignited a political storm, with reactions pouring in from various quarters.

The decision was announced following a meeting of the Five Singh Sahibans in Amritsar. Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gagdaj stated that the controversy stems from a purportedly objectionable video linked to Mann. He emphasized that the matter touches upon Sikh sentiments, warranting a serious stance. Meanwhile, the BJP has intensified its criticism of the Chief Minister over the issue.

Delhi BJP leader and minister Majinder Singh Sirsa has strongly condemned Mann, asserting that the video clearly features the Chief Minister. Sirsa revealed that the location and hotel where the incident allegedly occurred have also been identified. He described Mann's actions in the video as a "grave sin" and expressed disbelief over Mann's denial of the allegations. Sirsa further criticized individuals who consume alcohol and visit religious places, calling their behavior reprehensible.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), however, has vehemently opposed the Akal Takht's decision, claiming that the person in the video is not Bhagwant Mann. AAP leaders stated that two separate forensic analyses of the video were conducted, both of which failed to confirm Mann's identity. According to the party, experts examined 1,191 frames of the video, analyzing facial features, body structure, height, and other physical attributes.

The forensic investigation reportedly found discrepancies between the individual in the video and the Chief Minister. The person in the video is said to be approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, whereas Mann’s height is around 5 feet 8 inches. Differences were also noted in the side profile, back profile, shoulder structure, and walking style. AAP has alleged that the controversy is a deliberate attempt to disrupt the political and religious harmony in Punjab.

Bhagwant Mann himself has categorically denied the allegations, asserting that the individual in the controversial video is not him. He described the claims as baseless and accused certain political parties and opposition groups of orchestrating a campaign to tarnish his image. Mann maintained that the controversy is part of a calculated effort to discredit him.