Raghav Chadha Demands Bhagwant Mann’s Resignation Over Alleged Desecration Video Row

By Mahima Katal

Chandigarh: BJP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha has demanded the resignation of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, alleging that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government attempted to suppress a purported video that has sparked controversy for allegedly hurting Sikh religious sentiments.

Addressing the media, Chadha claimed that doubts surrounding the authenticity of the video had now been dispelled.

"Those who had even a slight doubt about whether this desecration video was real, AI-generated, or fake have now been cleared of all doubts and suspicions," he said.

Chadha further alleged that the Punjab government procured a fabricated forensic report to discredit the video and shield the chief minister from criticism.

"Bhagwant Mann and the Aam Aadmi Party had to fabricate a forensic report to conceal the actual desecration video. The entire Sikh community and the Guru Nanak Naamleva community are hurt, angry, and enraged today," he said.

The BJP leader also called for a detailed investigation into the circumstances under which the forensic report was obtained. He questioned the role of government officials, the source of funds used to procure the report, and whether any financial irregularities or money laundering offences were involved.

"An investigation should be conducted into how this fabricated forensic report was procured, which officers were involved, and whether government or private funds were used. If there has been misuse of public money, appropriate action must follow," Chadha said.

Demanding accountability, he urged Bhagwant Mann to step down from office and face legal proceedings.

"Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann should resign. Under the proposed sacrilege law, the first FIR and prosecution should be against Bhagwant Mann himself," he added.

The controversy centres around a purported video that allegedly shows the Punjab chief minister engaging in conduct considered disrespectful towards Sikh Gurus. While AAP has maintained that the video is either manipulated or presented out of context, the BJP and several Sikh religious organisations have accused Mann of hurting religious sentiments.

The row intensified after Gurugram Police initiated an investigation into allegations that a forensic report, which reportedly challenged the authenticity of the video, was procured through a payment of ₹10 lakh. BJP leaders have alleged an attempt to suppress the controversy using money and state machinery, allegations that have been denied by the AAP.

The matter has also reached the Akal Takht, the highest temporal authority of Sikhs, which reportedly summoned Mann and initiated proceedings related to the controversy.

The BJP has continued to press for legal action against the Punjab chief minister, accusing him of disrespecting Sikh religious sentiments and attempting to conceal the matter through questionable means.