Even Maharaja Ranjit Singh Never Defied a Decision of Sri Akal Takht Sahib; Who Is CM Mann to Question It: Randhawa

Chandigarh, June 16, 2026: Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa reacted to the controversy surrounding the alleged viral video involving Bhagwant Mann, stating that anyone who questions the decisions and directives of the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib cannot call himself a true Sikh. He said that even Maharaja Ranjit Singh never disregarded the decisions of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, so who is Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to question such a decision?
Randhawa said that Sri Akal Takht Sahib is the supreme religious institution for the Sikh community, and its directives deserve respect from every Sikh. He added that no political party or leader has the right to challenge the dignity and authority of Akal Takht Sahib.
He further stated that while it is true that the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has long been under the influence of the Shiromani Akali Dal, this does not diminish the importance, authority, or respect of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the position of the Jathedar. In the Sikh faith, Akal Takht holds the highest religious authority, and its status must be respected under all circumstances.
Randhawa said that the manner in which the entire Punjab Government and the Aam Aadmi Party machinery appear to be actively working to protect an individual in the controversy involving Bhagwant Mann is highly inappropriate and concerning. He said that the responsibility of a government is to address the problems of the people, not to use the state machinery to safeguard the political image of a particular individual. Any attempt to suppress the issue or divert public attention is against the spirit of democracy.
Randhawa said that the people of Punjab want to know the truth and expect accountability. He added that respecting Sikh institutions and religious traditions is the responsibility of every political party and every leader. Concluding his statement, he said that respecting the directives of Akal Takht Sahib and Sikh institutions is in the best interests of both Punjab and the Sikh community.