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Akal Takht Issues 10-Day Ultimatum to Punjab Government Over Alleged Social Media Campaign

Published July 5, 2026 at 3:42 PM UTC

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In a significant escalation of tensions between the Akal Takht and the Punjab government, the highest Sikh temporal authority has issued a stern 10-day ultimatum to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's administration. The Akal Takht Jathedar, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, accused the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of orchestrating a campaign to malign Sikh institutions through social media. He alleged that two centers, one in Mohali and another in Chandigarh, were being used to run an organized social media campaign against the Akal Takht Sahib and other revered Sikh institutions. Gargaj further claimed that individuals "from Delhi" were operating these centers, systematically creating a negative narrative against Sikh religious bodies. The Jathedar stated, "We have repeatedly brought this issue to the government's notice. We are giving the Punjab government 10 days to stop the people allegedly hired by it who are writing against Sri Akal Takht Sahib. If no action is taken, the Panth will march to these centers and ensure that these operations are shut down." This warning was issued during a Panthic congregation convened by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The gathering, attended by Sikh religious bodies and Panthic organizations, was held amid the ongoing row over Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and resolutions passed by the Akal Takht. The confrontation between the Akal Takht and the Punjab government has been intensifying over various issues, including the enactment of the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, which the Akal Takht has formally rejected, citing concerns over state interference in religious affairs. The Akal Takht has also issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Punjab government to remove specific provisions from the law that are deemed offensive to Sikh sentiments. The latest ultimatum regarding the alleged social media campaign adds a new dimension to the ongoing dispute, highlighting the deepening rift between the Sikh religious leadership and the state government. The Punjab government has yet to respond to the Akal Takht's allegations and demands. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated in the coming days.