Akal Takht Jathedar rebukes CM Mann over Golak remarks: “Don’t play with Sikh sentiments”

Amritsar (Punjab), November 3, 2025: Akal Takht Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargaj has sharply criticized Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for his recent comments on the Golak (donation boxes) in gurdwaras, warning him against making statements that hurt Sikh sentiments.

Referring to the Chief Minister’s alleged remark that “if money from the Golaks stops coming, 95% of the Akali Dal will vanish,” the Jathedar said such comments are deeply disrespectful to the faith and devotion of the Sikh community.

“The Sikh community contributes to the Golak with love and reverence. If the Chief Minister dislikes it, he should refrain from playing with the emotions of the Sikh community,” the Jathedar asserted.

Highlighting the role of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) during crises, the Jathedar cited the organization’s relief efforts during the recent Punjab floods. He said that the SGPC, with funds received through the Golak offerings, had extended immense support to affected families and continues to do so.

“This very Golak money, offered with devotion, becomes the first to serve humanity in times of disaster,” he added, emphasizing the sanctity and selfless purpose of such contributions.

The Jathedar further remarked, “Once again, it has been proven which Akali Dal truly represents the Sikh Panth. The mother party, Shiromani Akali Dal, has always stood for Sikh values and the welfare of the community.”

Sharing details of his outreach, he mentioned, “I visited over 1,300 villages and encountered no opposition anywhere in the country. The Panth knows who stands by them.”