Akal Takht Declares Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Guilty Over Controversial Video, Summons Sikh Lawmakers
The Akal Takht, the highest Sikh temporal authority, declared Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann 'Guru Dokhi' and 'Khalsa Panth Virodhi' over a viral video purportedly showing him sprinkling alcohol on portraits of Sikh Gurus. Forensic tests by two recognized labs confirmed the video's authenticity, contradicting Mann's denial. The Akal Takht also summoned all Sikh MLAs and the Punjab Cabinet to appear on June 29 regarding objections to the recently enacted anti-sacrilege law. The Congress party demanded Mann's resignation, while some leaders questioned his adherence to Sikh traditions.