Jakhar seeks CM Mann’s resignation over sacrilege controversy, calls for High Court-monitored probe

Former Punjab BJP president and senior party leader Sunil Jakhar on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, alleging that the latter would have to face the consequences of disrespecting Sikh religious sentiments and challenging the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.

In a statement shared through social media, Jakhar cited verses from Gurbani and said they reflected the present circumstances in Punjab. Referring to the ongoing controversy surrounding a viral video and the subsequent allegations regarding a disputed forensic report, he claimed that the situation had raised serious concerns about governance and accountability.

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Jakhar alleged that the Chief Minister was attempting to shield himself from controversy through reports that have come under scrutiny. He further claimed that if public officials entrusted with upholding the law were instead involved in protecting those in power, it would undermine public confidence in institutions.

The BJP leader said that mere administrative action against officials allegedly linked to the matter would not be sufficient if the allegations proved true. According to him, accountability must extend to all those responsible for any wrongdoing. He remarked that actions perceived as an affront to religious institutions and sentiments carry serious consequences and cannot be brushed aside through procedural measures alone.

Referring to Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Jakhar asserted that history had shown that individuals who confronted the institution eventually faced political setbacks. He said the controversy could have been addressed differently had the Chief Minister acknowledged concerns raised by critics, but instead, he alleged, further controversies had emerged in the process of defending the government’s position.

Demanding immediate action, Jakhar called for Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to step down from office and sought the suspension of officials allegedly associated with the preparation of the disputed report. He also urged that the matter be investigated under the supervision of the Punjab and Haryana High Court within a fixed timeframe to ensure transparency and public confidence.

The former BJP state chief further demanded the registration of a case against the Chief Minister under provisions relating to sacrilege, contending that the allegations warranted a thorough legal examination.

The remarks are the latest in a series of political reactions linked to the controversy, which has triggered a fresh confrontation between opposition parties and the Punjab government. The state government has not yet issued an official response to Jakhar’s latest statement.