‘Truth behind fake video exposed’: Not one of 1,191 frames matches my physical features, CM Mann

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Chandigarh, June 19

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has strongly rejected allegations linked to a controversial video, saying two independent forensic examinations found no evidence that he appears in the footage.

In a video message addressed to Punjabis worldwide on Friday, Mann said his public life has been devoted to serving Punjab and that political opponents were attempting to damage his reputation through what he described as a fabricated controversy. The Chief Minister said forensic experts analysed 1,191 frames from the video and concluded that the individual shown did not match his facial features, height, body structure or overall appearance. According to Mann, the reports also suggested that the person in the footage was around two inches taller than him.

Calling the episode a “deliberate conspiracy”, Mann said he had directed the Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) to identify everyone involved in creating, funding and circulating the video, regardless of where they are located. He said those responsible should be brought before the Sikh community, adding that the truth should be placed before the Sangat.

Chief Minister Mann said that he has always served Sikh institutions and causes and expressed disappointment over attempts to associate him with the video. He argued that the allegations were being used for political purposes and accused some of his critics of exploiting religious issues to regain political relevance. Highlighting his government initiatives, the Chief Minister pointed to measures such as tax exemptions for vehicles used in religious processions and legislation aimed at strengthening punishment for sacrilege cases and the granting of Holy City status to Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo.

The Chief Minister also listed welfare and development schemes undertaken by his government, including free electricity for most households, recruitment drives, the expansion of healthcare services through Aam Aadmi Clinics, improvements in education infrastructure and efforts to expand canal irrigation.

Mann claimed that Punjab’s development and the popularity of his government had unsettled political opponents, leading to what he described as a coordinated campaign against him.

Referring to criticism from opposition parties and religious bodies, he reiterated that he respects Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the Sikh Sangat, but said decisions should be based on facts rather than misinformation.

He appealed to Punjabis not to be influenced by what he called politically motivated narratives and pledged to continue working for the state’s welfare.

Concluding his message, Mann said his commitment to Punjab remained unchanged and that he would continue to work for the rights and interests of its people.