Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday appeared before Sri Akal Takht and gave his explanation. When CM Mann reached Sri Harmandir Sahib, one of his security officials was seen carrying a black bag. Later, it was revealed that CM Mann has submitted bag full of evidence to Sri Akal Takht.
According to reports, CM Mann's appearance before Sri Akal Takht lasted up to 40 minutes. After his appearance before Sri Akal Takht, CM Mann addressed the media in which he explained that he can never think of challenging the supreme temporal seat of the Sikhs.
"I also clarified that narratives are being created suggesting that I am challenging Sri Akal Takht. I have bowed before Sri Akal Takht and informed them that this is not true. I neither have the courage nor the stature to do so,” he said.
CM Mann further informed that Singh Sahibs said that he will be informed about the decision that they will take in coming days.
"I feel relief and satisfaction that I was able to present the sentiments of the people through my explanation before the Jathedar,” the CM said.
Regarding the controversial video circulating on social media, CM Mann said, "I informed the Singh Sahibs that the video is fake. In today's time, videos can be edited with the help of AI. It can be examined at any laboratory of their choice."
The controversy erupted after Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj of Sri Akal Takht expressed his objection stating that Jasbir Jassi is not a complete Sikh and therefore cannot sing shabads.
Thereafter, a video went viral claiming that CM Mann had said people should also be stopped from bowing before the Sri Guru Granth Sahib and making offerings in the donation box (golak).
Ahead of the appearance, CM Mann had visited the Golden Temple barefoot and bowed his head in reverence. After paying obeisance, he carried black bags containing documents and evidence to Sri Akal Takht Secretariat. Media access was not allowed during the session.
AAP spokesperson and MLA Kuldeep Dhaliwal said that only CM Mann and the Jathedar were present inside, and their discussion focused solely on the issues raised. "The CM brought all the evidence requested by the Jathedar," he added.
Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargaj had summoned CM Mann on January 15 regarding a controversial video, golak issue, and other Sikh matters.