Punjab CM Questions Akal Takht Leadership as Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann strongly criticised the appointment of acting Akal Takht Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargaj. He said the selection ignored proper maryada and came under political influence. Punjab CM Questions Akal Takht Leadership after Gargaj recently pulled up Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh over an alleged violation of Sikh maryada during a performance at Anandpur Sahib.
Speaking in Dhuri, Mann said he deeply respects the Akal Takht as an institution. However, he argued that the present occupant acts like a political nominee and often takes positions that suit those who placed him there. Gargaj summoned Minister Sondh and asked him to offer an explanation within a week.
Gargaj, appointed by the SGPC in March 2025 after the removal of earlier Jathedars, has stayed vocal against the AAP government. He earlier warned Mann over his remarks about “golak”, accusing him of hurting Sikh sentiments.
During the Dhuri event held for the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, Mann distributed cheques worth ₹71 crore for development in 142 villages and towns. He also inaugurated 38 projects worth ₹7.57 crore in 17 villages.
Mann urged devotees to join statewide events from November 23 to 25 and highlighted upcoming nagar kirtans, tree plantation drives and blood donation camps.
