A major political controversy has erupted in Punjab after the Sri Akal Takht Sahib declared Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann “guilty” and “anti-Panth” over an alleged objectionable viral video. The video reportedly accused Mann of committing an act of disrespect, although the Chief Minister has maintained that it was generated using artificial intelligence (AI) and is fake. However, the Akal Takht rejected this explanation and held him responsible, intensifying the political storm ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections. Following the decision, opposition parties, including the Shiromani Akali Dal, sharply criticized Mann, with party president Sukhbir Singh Badal demanding his immediate resignation and stating that he has no moral right to continue as Chief Minister. Political observers note that religious issues are once again taking center stage in Punjab’s politics. Bhagwant Mann has defended himself by alleging political interference behind the decision while reaffirming his respect for the Akal Takht as the highest religious authority in Sikhism.

