Viral video fake, never challenged Akal Takht: CM Bhagwant Mann presents clarification before Jathedar Gadgaj

January 15, 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appeared before the Akal Takht, the supreme temporal seat of Sikhism, in Amritsar today, for a 40-minute hearing. During this time, CM Mann sat on the ground with folded hands before the Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj.

After the hearing, CM Mann, upon leaving the Akal Takht, said that he had clarified that a narrative was being created on social media that he was challenging the Akal Takht. He said he had bowed before the Akal Takht and told them that there was nothing of the sort. He added that he neither had the courage nor the standing to do so.

Fake video circulating on social media 

The Chief Minister said that he would be informed about any further instructions or decisions. He expressed his relief and satisfaction at having presented the people’s sentiments, along with his explanations, to the Jathedar. Regarding the objectionable video circulating on social media, the CM stated that it was fake and that they could have it investigated by any authority they wished.

Meanwhile, Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj has also called a press conference at the Sri Akal Takht Sahib Secretariat shortly.

CM Mann arrived at the Akal Takht Secretariat at 11:30 AM, earlier than the scheduled time of 12 PM. CM Bhagwant Mann first arrived at the Golden Temple barefoot and with his eyes downcast. After paying his respects there, he proceeded to the Akal Takht Secretariat carrying two bags containing evidence.

Why CM Bhagwant Mann summoned?

It is worth noting that Akal Takht Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj has summoned the CM regarding an objectionable video and statements made on other Sikh issues, including the Golak (collection box) controversy. Since the CM is not an Amritdhari Sikh, he will appear at the Secretariat instead of the Akal Takht premises to provide clarification on all the issues.

4th CM to be summoned

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will be the fourth Chief Minister to be summoned to the Akal Takht. Previously, the late Bhim Sen Sachar, Surjit Singh Barnala, and Parkash Singh Badal were also summoned to the Akal Takht.

Live telecast of his appearance

Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appealed to the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj, to live telecast his appearance at the Akal Takht on January 15th on all channels. Mann wrote on the social media platform X: “I am receiving messages from all over the world that when I present the accounts of the donation box (golak) on behalf of the congregation on January 15th, it should be a live telecast.

Understanding the sentiments of the global Sikh community, I also request the Jathedar to ensure that my explanation is broadcast live. This will allow the congregation to stay informed about every detail and the accounting of the funds. See you on January 15th, with all the evidence.” Meanwhile, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) expressed displeasure over CM Mann’s demand.