Punjab Chief Minister Warns Of Strict Action Over Missing 328 Guru Granth Sahib Copies

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann addressed a press conference in Chandigarh on Monday. He said Punjabis and the Sikh sangat have been in deep pain for years. The reason is the disappearance of 328 saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib. He said no concrete action had been taken so far. The matter has deeply hurt religious sentiments. The state government decided to intervene. An FIR was registered in the case. A Special Investigation Team was also constituted.

What Did CM Say About SGPC?

The Chief Minister strongly criticised the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee and its leadership. He alleged the SGPC was shielding guilty persons. He said the SGPC was using religion to escape accountability. According to him, SGPC leaders started attacking the state government after the FIR. He accused them of misleading the public. He said the SGPC was acting on directions of Akali leaders. Mann claimed religious institutions were being misused.

What Was Said About Earlier Resolutions?

CM Mann said the SGPC itself had passed resolutions in 2020. These resolutions demanded strict action against erring employees and publishers. He said criminal cases were recommended earlier. Decisions were also taken against senior officials and firms. However, no action was implemented. He said these resolutions were later withdrawn. According to him, this raised serious questions. He alleged influential people were being protected. The government decided to act where SGPC failed.

Why Was SIT Formed By Government?

The Chief Minister said the SIT was formed as a moral responsibility. He said only the state government has the authority to register criminal cases. Mann clarified that the government was not interfering in religious affairs. He said the SGPC had itself sought criminal action earlier. The SIT was formed to ensure recovery of the missing saroops. The government wants to prevent any desecration. He said the investigation would be fair and thorough. The SIT will probe all angles.

What Allegations Were Made Against Akali Leadership?

CM Mann alleged that the Akali Dal leadership controls SGPC decisions. He said the SGPC President was acting as a puppet. According to him, Akali leaders fear investigation. He claimed they were using Sri Akal Takht Sahib to protect close associates. Mann said SGPC wants power without accountability. He accused Akali leaders of political misuse of religion. He said a fair probe would expose the truth. The government will not bow to pressure.

What Was Said On Elections And Accountability?

The Chief Minister said SGPC elections have not been held for 14 years. He said no serious demand was raised before the Union government. Mann said this reflects lack of accountability. He said every Sikh feels hurt due to the missing saroops. The issue affects collective conscience. He said the state government stands with the Sikh community. Mann said justice will be delivered. Accountability cannot be avoided. Law will take its course.

What Broader Allegations Did CM Raise?

CM Mann also accused Akali leaders of supporting anti-state decisions. He cited issues like SYL and central university status. He said such decisions were taken for personal benefit. Mann said the Akali Dal was once known as a party of lions. He claimed it has now lost its direction. According to him, power greed has weakened leadership. He said the Punjab government will continue to fight. The focus remains justice and accountability. The culprits will not be spared.