Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Amit Malviya has termed the recent announcement from the Akal Takht as a significant event in Punjab’s political and religious sphere. The Panj Singh Sahib at Sri Akal Takht Sahib has labeled Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann as Panth Virodhi and Guru Virodhi, as highlighted by Malviya. This declaration came after Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj’s comments on a viral video allegedly depicting Bhagwant Mann under the influence of alcohol.
Such statements, according to Malviya, go beyond symbolism and can influence discussions in Punjab, where religious beliefs and political power often converge. The Akal Takht’s statements today are anticipated to have broad political and social implications, given the unwavering respect Sikhs hold for the Guru Sahibs and Sikh maryada. Earlier, Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon urged Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to step down following the Akal Takht’s declaration of him as “Guru Dokhi” and “anti-Khalsa Panth” due to a controversial video showing liquor being sprinkled on a Guru Sahibs image.
Dhillon emphasized the gravity of being labeled as Guru Dokhi and anti-Khalsa Panth by Sri Akal Takht Sahib, indicating potential social and moral repercussions. He expressed concerns over the impact on the functioning of Sikh ministers and officials in the Punjab government and the state’s administrative processes. Dhillon suggested that Chief Minister Mann should take moral responsibility and resign from his position considering the seriousness of the situation. The intervention of the Akal Takht, despite Bhagwant Mann’s government’s focus on governance and reform, adds a moral and spiritual aspect that could reshape public opinion.
