Amritsar,
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the highest temporal seat of Sikh authority, where he paid obeisance as a humble Sikh and offered a detailed clarification regarding his past statements. Walking barefoot and performing ardas, the Chief Minister devoted the entire day to the revered institution, reiterating his unwavering faith in the supremacy of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and his complete acceptance of its decisions.
Addressing the media after presenting himself at the Akal Takht Secretariat, the Chief Minister said that he appeared in compliance with the directions of the Jathedar Sahib and placed his explanation with utmost humility. He emphasized that Sri Akal Takht Sahib is the supreme institution for the entire Sikh community and holds the same highest place in his personal faith as well. Mann categorically stated that there was neither any intention nor any question of challenging or undermining the authority of this sacred institution.
The Chief Minister informed that the Jathedar Sahib has formally recorded his statement and that further action will be decided after consultations with the Singh Sahiban. Expressing deep reverence for every directive issued by Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Mann said he would abide by every decision with full devotion. He described his appearance before the Takht as a moment that brought him inner peace, spiritual calm, and personal satisfaction.
Rejecting allegations of any confrontation between the Punjab government and Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Mann termed such narratives as baseless and misleading, allegedly being spread by vested interests. He asserted that his government remains fully committed to the progress of Punjab and the welfare of its people, and that respect for Sikh institutions is non-negotiable.
Calling himself a servant of Punjab, the Chief Minister said that he prays daily for the chardi kala of the state and its people. He maintained that his head bows before every religious place and that it is inconceivable for him to take any step that could harm the interests or sentiments of Punjab and Punjabis.
During his appearance, Mann submitted a large volume of complaints—ranging between 25,000 and 30,000 pages—before the Jathedar Sahib, stating that these represent the sentiments of lakhs of people who have raised concerns regarding alleged irregularities in the functioning of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. He urged that these complaints be examined impartially, emphasizing that while institutions remain supreme, individuals heading them can err and should be held accountable without leniency.
The Chief Minister reiterated that every directive of Sri Akal Takht Sahib is acceptable to him and his family. He also expressed gratitude to the Jathedar Sahib for presenting him with two important books related to Sikh Rehat Maryada and the Gurdwara Act.
Clarifying the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe missing saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Mann stated that the move carries no political intent. He explained that the sole purpose of the investigation is to trace the missing saroops and prevent any possible misuse. He further requested the Jathedar Sahib to direct the Shiromani Committee to provide unique identification codes assigned to each printed saroop, which would aid in tracking those unaccounted for.
The Chief Minister assured that the Punjab Police and the state government would locate the sacred saroops and share verified information with Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the Shiromani Committee to ensure action in accordance with Sikh Maryada. He added that clear instructions have already been issued to the police not to enter religious premises while conducting any inquiry related to saroops. Mann also noted that the Jathedar Sahib informed him that prior to 1998, the printing of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji was carried out at multiple locations.
Reaffirming his devotion, Mann concluded by stating that Sri Akal Takht Sahib will always remain supreme and that his faith in its authority is absolute and unquestionable.
