Punjab's Political Titans Face the Akal Takht: A Legacy of Reckoning

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appeared before the Akal Takht Secretariat following comments on Sikh traditions. The event adds to a history of political figures, including Parkash Singh Badal and Zail Singh, summoned for atonement by this religious authority. Previous cases imposed fines or community service as penance.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann stepped into the Akal Takht Secretariat on Thursday following a summons regarding his remarks on Sikh traditions. This appearance adds his name to a roster of politicians who have faced the revered Sikh authority for similar reasons.

Historically, the Akal Takht has held notable figures accountable. In May 1986, then-Punjab Chief Minister Surjit Singh Barnala was found guilty of religious misconduct, decreed to pay fines, perform religious ceremonies, and engage in humbling community service as punishment.

Parkash Singh Badal faced the Takht in 1979 over a contentious incident involving Sikh-Nirankari conflicts in Amritsar. Others, like ex-India President Zail Singh post-Operation Blue Star and Union Minister Buta Singh, experienced similar reckonings. The Akal Takht continues to play a profound role in holding Sikh leaders accountable for their actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)