Amritsar: A fresh controversy has erupted in Punjab after Sri Akal Takht Sahib Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj stated that the viral video allegedly showing Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann sprinkling alcohol on portraits of Sikh Gurus is neither AI-generated nor digitally manipulated.
Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj said this in a meeting of Sikh bodies convened at Sri Akal Takht Sahib on June 15. He said forensic analysis by two recognised laboratories has confirmed that an objectionable video circulating online which apparently shows a man resembling Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann committing sacrilege is authentic.
Thus, the five high Sikh Priest from the faseel of Sri Akal Takht Sahib declares Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann as “Guru Dokhi, Khalsa Panth Virodhi”(Against Sikh religion).
The statement comes amid growing outrage among sections of the Sikh community over the contents of the footage. The controversy stems from a video that surfaced in January 2026, allegedly showing Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann sprinkling alcohol on portraits of Sikh Gurus, triggering widespread outrage and prompting intervention by the Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
He also said the laboratories had issued certificates committing to appear in court to defend their conclusions if challenged. “They have given us certificates stating that anyone can challenge their findings in any court of their choice; they will appear in court to testify, and no one will be able to disprove their reports”, the Jathedar added.
Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj further stated that if directed by the Panth, a meeting of the Five Sikh High Priests could be convened to deliberate on the matter and pronounce a formal verdict. The issue has intensified political and religious debate across Punjab.
