Chandigarh, May 11
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday visited Gurdwara Jyotisar Sahib, where he joined members of the Sangat in offering Ardas and thanksgiving following the passage of the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act 2026. The Punjab Chief Minister said the legislation, which introduces stricter punishment for acts of beadbi (desecration) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, had brought relief and satisfaction to the Sikh community. He described the law as a strong step aimed at preventing future incidents of sacrilege.
Speaking after attending the bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib, Mann said people across Punjab were organising thanksgiving prayers to mark the enactment of the law. He added that the government remained committed to protecting the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and ensuring strict action against anyone found involved in sacrilegious acts.
In a post shared on X, Mann said he had prayed for Punjab’s prosperity, peace and the welfare of its people. He also said he hoped to help rebuild a “Rangla Punjab” with the blessings of Guru Sahib.
The Chief Minister also used the occasion to criticise the BJP-led central government, alleging that national decisions were increasingly influenced by the United States. Referring to recent geopolitical developments, Mann claimed that important matters, including those related to tensions between India and Pakistan, appeared to be shaped by signals from the White House.
He further accused the Centre of misusing investigative agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to target opposition leaders. Mann said Punjabis had historically resisted political pressure and would continue to defend democratic values. The Punjab Chief Minister also raised concerns over economic policies linked to foreign investment and a proposed India-US trade agreement. He argued that such policies could negatively affect Indian agriculture and weaken farmers’ interests.
