Chandigarh, 24 June (H.S.): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday alleged that opposition parties have launched a coordinated campaign to defame him through fabricated videos after failing to challenge his government politically. In a video message, the Chief Minister accused the Shiromani Akali Dal, Congress and BJP of joining hands to malign his image on religious grounds.

Mann said that his political opponents had failed to raise any substantial issue against his government and had therefore resorted to spreading false propaganda. He expressed complete faith in the wisdom of the Nanak Naam Leva Sangat and said that the final judgment should be left to the people and the Sikh community.

“For the past several days, fake videos have been circulated as part of a cheap political conspiracy. My opponents cannot challenge the work of my government, so they are trying to defame me through religion,” the Chief Minister said.

Referring to the controversial video, Mann stated that the person shown in the footage neither resembled him nor matched his physical appearance, body language, or mannerisms. He claimed that the people of Punjab and the Sikh community had already recognized that the video was fake.

The Chief Minister said that the government had obtained forensic examinations of the video, but alleged that the laboratories involved were now being targeted. He accused opposition parties of pressuring laboratory owners through threats and legal action in an attempt to discredit the reports.

Mann claimed that the controversy had backfired on his opponents, as many people questioned the authenticity of the video. He alleged that opposition parties were now using social media and artificial intelligence tools to spread misinformation.

The Chief Minister said that he remained focused on public welfare and would continue working for the development of Punjab. He highlighted initiatives related to electricity, roads, healthcare, village ponds, Aam Aadmi Clinics, hospitals, and employment generation.

He also questioned why no boycott campaigns were launched against previous governments after they had accepted responsibility for incidents of sacrilege and police firing before Sri Akal Takht Sahib.

Mann said that the opposition parties were uncomfortable with the public support his government continued to receive. He maintained that the people of Punjab would ultimately decide the truth.

Reiterating his commitment to Punjab, the Chief Minister said that he would continue serving the people with dedication and confidence. “The Sangat will decide, the people will decide. I belong to the people and will continue to work for Punjab’s progress,” he said.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH