The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has passed a resolution demanding the resignation of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. The SGPC stated that he has no moral right to continue in office following the ‘hukumnama’ (directive) issued by the Akal Takht, Sikhism’s highest temporal seat, in connection with a controversial video.
SGPC Executive Committee Takes Action
The decision was taken during a meeting of the SGPC’s executive committee, chaired by its president Harjinder Singh Dhami. According to The Tribune, the SGPC passed the resolution demanding Mann’s resignation over the controversial video row.
Akal Takht Declares CM ‘Guru Dokhi’
The Akal Takht has declared Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann ‘Guru Dokhi’ (one who betrays the Guru) over the controversial video. Forensic labs have declared the clip authentic, as reported by Instagram. The opposition has also demanded Mann’s resignation following the development.
The SGPC also released the video recording of Mann’s appearance before the Akal Takht on January 15 in connection with the controversial video on social media and the proceedings initiated thereafter by the officiating Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj. The video pertains to the conversation that led to the controversy.
"SGPC demands CM Mann’s resignation over controversial video row" — The Tribune on X
Political Crisis in Punjab
The demand for resignation has sparked a political crisis in Punjab. According to The New Indian Express, the Akal Takht released the Mann video, and the SGPC is now seeking the Punjab CM's resignation over the controversial clip. Mann allegedly suggested that the clip was being circulated by a person named Jagman, whom he describes as a habitual drug user with a history of blackmail and erratic behaviour.
Our Take: A Serious Challenge to Mann’s Leadership
In our view, this is a significant moment in Punjab politics. The SGPC’s demand for resignation, backed by the Akal Takht’s directive, puts immense pressure on Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The fact that forensic labs have declared the video authentic makes the situation even more serious. Mann now faces a tough choice — either step down or fight the allegations. For the people of Punjab, this raises questions about the credibility of their leader. The coming days will show how this political crisis unfolds.