The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday alleged that a silicone mask resembling Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was used to create the controversial video that triggered a row over alleged disrespect towards Sikh Gurus.
The ruling party in Punjab released videos on social media, claiming they expose an alleged conspiracy to defame Mann. According to AAP, a man wearing a silicone mask resembling the Chief Minister filmed the video that has drawn criticism from opposition parties and Sikh religious bodies.
AAP releases videos, alleges conspiracy
In a post on X, AAP accused opposition parties, including the Shiromani Akali Dal, BJP and Congress, of orchestrating a campaign against Mann. The party shared footage purportedly showing differences in skin tone and visible mask lines, claiming these indicate the use of a facial mask.
AAP also released another video showing a man holding what it said was a silicone mask resembling Mann's face. The party identified the individual as Jagman Samra, whom Mann claimed is based in Canada.
The party alleged that the video was part of a deliberate attempt to tarnish the Chief Minister's image.
The controversy stems from a purported video clip that allegedly showed a man resembling Mann engaging in activities considered disrespectful towards Sikh Gurus. The issue escalated after the Akal Takht issued an edict against the Chief Minister on June 15.
Earlier, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj had stated that two forensic laboratories found the video to be authentic. AAP, however, disputed the findings and submitted a separate forensic report claiming the individual in the footage was not Mann.
The matter took another turn when Haryana Police arrested two persons in connection with the procurement of the forensic report, alleging that it was fabricated.
Mann reiterates denial
Responding to the controversy, Mann maintained that he was not the person seen in the video. He alleged that the footage was filmed in a hotel room in Abbotsford, Canada, by an individual wearing a mask resembling his face.
The Chief Minister said he had not visited Canada since 2016 and questioned the circumstances surrounding the recording. He also claimed more details about those behind the video would be revealed in the coming days and said the newly surfaced footage would be submitted to the Akal Takht for examination.
Investigations into the matter are continuing.
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