Punjab CM Accuses Akali Leaders of Misusing Religious Institutions for Personal Gain

Allegations Against Akali Leaders

On Sunday, Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused Akali leaders of transforming the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) into a 'Shiromani Golak (donation box) Management Committee' driven by greed.

In response, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami condemned Mann's remarks, labeling them as 'baseless, deeply hurtful to Sikh sentiments, and an insult to the supreme religious institution of the Sikh community.'

Dhami further stated that Mann's comments not only reflect his 'intellectual bankruptcy' but also expose his arrogance and shallow understanding.

While addressing a public gathering, Mann alleged that the Badal family has misused their political power to interfere in religious matters, including manipulating the appointments of Akal Takht's jathedars to serve their personal interests.

He claimed, 'The Akalis have tarnished the integrity of the SGPC for financial gain and exploited it and the Akal Takht for narrow political advantages.'

The Chief Minister also accused Akali leaders of misrepresenting the directives of the Akal Takht to 'deceive the public and fulfill their agenda.'

Mann asserted, 'The Akalis have not only plundered the state treasury but have also siphoned off funds from religious institutions. Their tenure was marked by political and religious exploitation, causing significant harm to Punjab.'

He concluded by stating that the Akali leadership symbolizes a legacy that neglected the poor while allowing the powerful to exploit the state without restraint. Mann emphasized that the Akali leaders have become out of touch with the people, leading to their downfall.