Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has questioned the legitimacy of acting Akal Takht Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, pointing out that his appointment,” did not follow the requisite ‘maryada’ [religious integrity] and was politically motivated.
Speaking at a gathering in Dhuri, Sangrur, CM Mann conveyed that he has a huge respect for the establishment of Akal Takht, but the current officeholder is a political appointee, which explains why he tends to take positions that favour them.
This was brought to attention when Acting Jathedar Gargaj had issued a summons to Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh to appear before him within a week, and asked him to explain the actions which are deemed against Sikh principles.
Gargaj had previously criticised Mann and cautioned him over “golak” remarks, warning him not to play with Sikh sentiments.
Intensifying his stance against the opposition, CM Mann said that Akali leaders have used religion as a shield to distract from political shortcomings. He called out the hypocrisy of the Akali leadership and questioned their government’s piety when they have already lost their credibility among the masses.
This discourse happened at the function organised at Dhuri to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur. The CM also distributed cheques worth Rs 71 crore for the development of 142 villages and towns visited by the Guru.
