The North News
Chandigarh, January 14
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has dismissed speculation that he sought a change in schedule for his appearance before Sri Akal Takht Sahib, saying he will present himself on January 15 as directed and with “full humility”. In a statement, Mann said neither he nor his office had requested any alteration in timing and that the entire day had been kept free to comply with the directions of the Jathedar. “I will appear before Sri Akal Takht Sahib as a devout Sikh and there is no question whatsoever of seeking any change in the timing,” he said, adding that he had no other engagements scheduled for the day.
The Chief Minister said he had informed the office of the President of India that he would be unable to attend an official event on January 15 because the date was reserved exclusively for his appearance before the Takht.
Rejecting reports of any official outreach for rescheduling, Mann said no letter or communication had been issued by him or his office seeking a change. He underlined the sanctity of the institution, describing Sri Akal Takht Sahib as the highest temporal seat of Sikhs, and said its authority was supreme.
“Any command or order from Sri Akal Takht Sahib is acceptable to me with full reverence and will be obeyed in letter and spirit,” he said.
