Punjab CM Mann Seeks Live Telecast of His Akal Takht Appearance Amid Controversy
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Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has requested the Akal Takht to allow a live telecast of his appearance before the Akal Takht Secretariat on January 15. Mann, who has been summoned to clarify his alleged 'anti-Sikh' remarks, plans to present his explanation in person, 'as a humble Sikh, walking barefoot.' The controversy stems from Mann's comments on 'Guru ki Golak' and his involvement in 'objectionable activities' with images of Sikh Gurus and militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. The acting jathedar of the Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, had summoned Mann for allegedly hurting Sikh sentiments by criticizing the principle of 'Dasvandh', a Sikh practice of donating 10% of one's earnings as a religious duty. Mann's request for a live telecast has sparked debate, with some arguing that it will allow the 'Sangat' to stay informed about every detail. The move comes amid an ongoing tussle between the Punjab government and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee over the registration of an FIR in the case of 328 missing 'saroops' of the Guru Granth Sahib. Mann has maintained that the FIR was filed after several Sikh bodies demanded a thorough probe into the missing 'saroops' and their recovery. He has also accused the SGPC of failing to find the 328 missing 'saroops' and using the Akal Takht as a 'shield.' The outcome of Mann's appearance before the Akal Takht Secretariat on January 15 remains uncertain, with many watching the situation closely.
