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Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday announced a significant breakthrough in the sensitive case of missing saroops (sacred copies) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, stating that 169 out of the 328 missing saroops have been recovered from a religious place in Nawanshahr district. The announcement came a day ahead of Mann’s scheduled appearance before the Akal Takht, adding political and spiritual significance to the development.
Addressing the media, the Chief Minister said the recovery was made during an ongoing investigation being conducted by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Punjab government to probe the disappearance of the sacred scriptures. “The SIT got crucial clues during the questioning of former SGPC employees who were recently arrested in connection with the case,” Mann said.
Calling the recovery a significant development, Mann said the case had caused deep anguish and concern among the Sikh community, given the central spiritual importance of the Guru Granth Sahib.
He underlined that the investigation was progressing decisively and assured that no individual or institution involved in any wrongdoing would be spared, irrespective of their position or influence. “The sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib is of paramount importance for us. We are committed to tracing the remaining missing saroops as well and ensuring strict action against those responsible,” the Chief Minister said.
The disappearance of the sacred saroops had triggered widespread outrage across Punjab in the past, with repeated demands for accountability and justice. The latest recovery is being seen as a crucial step in restoring confidence in the investigation. However, Sikh organisations have maintained that full recovery and punishment of the guilty remain essential. Officials said the SIT is continuing its probe to locate the remaining missing saroops and establish the whole chain of responsibility for the lapse.
