AMRITSAR: In connection with matters related to the expression of an anti-Sikh mindset in the past, repeated objectionable remarks against the Sikh Rehat Maryada (code of conduct) and the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, comments against Guru’s Golak, and the emergence of his extremely objectionable video involving photographs of the Sikh Gurus and Sant Giani Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale, Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Singh appeared today at the Secretariat of Sri Akal Takht Sahib to submit his clarification.
On this occasion, CM Bhagwant Singh appeared before the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj, at the Secretariat. During the proceedings, the Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, Giani Tek Singh, was also present.
Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj sought detailed clarifications from CM Bhagwant Singh, addressing each allegation mentioned in the complaints received against him.
Later, while speaking to the media, Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj said that Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh had been summoned in connection with the complaints received against him. He said accepting the authority of Sri Akal Takht Sahib with a spirit of submission, the CM acknowledged that some incorrect statements had been made by him in the past and also expressed his consent for a forensic examination of the objectionable video that had surfaced.
Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj stated that CM Bhagwant Singh holds a constitutional post as the head of the Punjab government, and while assuming office he had taken an oath to remain secular. He said that a Chief Minister represents all religions present within the state, and that the comments made by CM Bhagwant Singh in the past regarding Sikh traditions, the principle of Dasvandh - Guru Ki Golak, Sikh Maryada, principles, and internal matters were inappropriate and hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community. Jathedar Gargajj said that CM has been cautioned not to speak in such a manner in the future about Sikh traditions, Guru Ki Golak, Maryada, principles, and the internal affairs of Sikhs.
He said that the clarification submitted by CM Bhagwant Singh has been recorded and will be deliberated upon in a meeting of the Five Singh Sahiban. On this occasion, Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj also specially presented CM Bhagwant Singh with a copy of the Panth-approved Sikh Rehat Maryada of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the monthly Gurdwara Gazette magazine, which publishes records of the income and expenditure statements of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), advising him to read and understand these historic documents. He said that CM admitted that he lacks knowledge about the Sikh Rehat Maryada and therefore should refrain from making statements about Maryada without proper understanding.
Regarding the video related to CM Bhagwant Singh, Jathedar Gargajj said that CM has been asked to suggest two forensic laboratories on behalf of the Punjab government where the video can be examined. He said that in addition to the laboratories suggested by the government, Sri Akal Takht Sahib will also independently have the objectionable video forensically examined. He added that whatever report emerges will be placed before the Khalsa Panth and a further decision will be taken accordingly. Since the matter related to the video is connected with Sikh sentiments and it is essential that no one’s character is maligned, a forensic examination is necessary.
Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj stated that Sri Akal Takht Sahib is the supreme temporal seat of the Sikh community, where no feelings of enmity or hostility are harboured against anyone, and the viewpoint of anyone who comes here with humility is heard. He said that the Sikh Gurus have connected the community with dialogue and deliberation, according to which the tradition of Sri Akal Takht Sahib functions. He said that the entire discussion with CM Bhagwant Singh took place in a very cordial atmosphere and he presented his clarifications. He added that if any leader holding a high constitutional office commits an error against Sikh traditions and Maryada that hurts Sikh sentiments, it is the duty of Sri Akal Takht Sahib to take serious notice and seek an explanation from the concerned person.
In response to a question regarding the issue of the 328 sacred saroops (scriptures) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj said that the Punjab government and CM Bhagwant Singh should not show any haste in this sensitive matter and should refrain from making statements without verified facts. He said that Sri Akal Takht Sahib has already directed everyone not to indulge in any kind of politics on this issue, and if this directive is violated, serious notice will be taken.
In response to another question, Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj said that during his appearance, the CM submitted certain documents related to the administrative affairs of the SGPC. These documents have been received by the in-charge of the Secretariat of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, and after due examination, the SGPC will be communicated accordingly.