Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon criticized the approval process for the Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, raising concerns over ministers and legislators consenting without reading it. Dhillon accused the Bhagwant Mann government, ministers, legislators, and AAP leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal, of politicizing the issue of Guru Granth Sahib sacrilege and playing with Sikh sentiments.
Dhillon highlighted that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann did not join ministers and legislators, despite the Akal Takht’s directive for their presence. He emphasized Mann’s dual role as Chief Minister and elected legislator, criticizing his absence in a matter significant to Sikh sentiments, which he viewed as disrespectful to Akal Takht Sahib.
The BJP President questioned AAP legislators seeking approval from Kejriwal before appearing before Akal Takht, suggesting a contradiction in the party’s stance on Akal Takht’s authority. Dhillon criticized the AAP government’s handling of Sikh religious legislation, pointing out the need for consent from Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and Akal Takht, which he claimed was disregarded due to the government’s power-driven approach.
Dhillon urged Chief Minister Mann to prioritize Akal Takht’s supremacy over political considerations, emphasizing the historical significance of the institution in Sikh tradition. He called for Mann to acknowledge any mistakes and comply with Akal Takht’s directives, warning of public repercussions if he fails to do so. The Akal Takht had issued a one-month ultimatum to the AAP government to address contentious clauses in the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkaar (Amendment) Act, 2026, aligning with Sikh sentiments, with the law remaining suspended until then.
