Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appeared before Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj at the Akal Takht secretariat in Amritsar on January 15, 2026. The summons were issued in response to alleged derogatory remarks made by the Chief Minister against Sikh institutions and principles, including 'Sikh Rehat Maryada' and 'Guru Ki Golak', as well as his conduct concerning images of Sikh Gurus and Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale in a viral video. CM Mann, who arrived barefoot and submitted written clarifications, reiterated his profound respect for the Akal Takht, stating that he neither has the courage nor the stature to challenge its supremacy. During the meeting, Jathedar Gargaj stated that CM Mann admitted to having made certain inappropriate remarks on religious affairs in the past and assured that he would refrain from such statements in the future. Regarding the controversial viral video, which allegedly depicted objectionable activities, Mann asserted it was fake, doctored, or generated through artificial intelligence, and offered to have it forensically examined from any credible lab. The Akal Takht officiating Jathedar confirmed that a forensic examination of the video would be conducted, and any future directives would be issued after the meeting of the five Sikh high priests. Mann notably skipped President Droupadi Murmu's event in Amritsar to prioritize his appearance before the Akal Takht. This event marks a significant moment as Mann is only the third Chief Minister to be summoned by the Akal Takht.