NRI Hits Back At Punjab CM Bhagwat Mann Over 'Mask' Claim, Calls Allegations 'False'
NRI Hits Back At Punjab CM Bhagwat Mann Over 'Mask' Claim, Calls Allegations 'False' Published By, Last Updated: June 26, 2026, 11:36 IST Samra questioned
NRI Hits Back At Punjab CM Bhagwat Mann Over 'Mask' Claim, Calls Allegations 'False' Published By, Last Updated: June 26, 2026, 11:36 IST Samra questioned the basis of Mann's claim and asked the chief minister to reveal where the alleged mask was obtained from and whether there was any record of its purchase. Samra questioned the basis of Mann's claim A day after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann alleged that a mask was used to create a viral video that hurt Sikh sentiments and claimed that Canada-based Punjabi NRI Jagman Samra was behind it, the later has posted a video rejecting all claims. Rejecting the accusation, Samra issued a video statement soon after Mann’s remarks, calling the allegation “completely false" and accusing the Punjab government of misleading people. Addressing a press conference on Thursday, Mann said the “objectionable" video was part of a political conspiracy and was recorded by making someone wear a mask resembling him.
He argued that a closer look at the footage shows the person in the video does not have the scar on the neck that he has carried since undergoing surgery in childhood. The chief minister named Samra in connection with the video and said the Punjab Police would bring him back to India through Interpol. Responding to the charge, Samra questioned the basis of Mann’s claim and asked the chief minister to reveal where the alleged mask was obtained from and whether there was any record of its purchase. “If I used a mask, the chief minister should tell the public where I got it from and whom I paid for it," Samra said, adding that any such transaction should leave behind evidence identifying the seller, buyer and mode of payment. He also challenged the authorities to identify the person who was allegedly made to wear the mask while recording the video.
According to Samra, no such individual exists and the allegation has been fabricated. He maintained that the burden of proof rests with those making the accusation. The exchange has further fuelled an already heated debate, with supporters of both sides taking to social media to defend their positions. So far, the Punjab government has not released any documentary or technical evidence to support its claim that a mask was used. Nor have the findings of any official investigation been made public. Mann has maintained that he is not the person seen in the video and has said he welcomes any investigation into the matter. Samra, meanwhile, has also expressed willingness to face scrutiny, arguing that making allegations without proof could erode public trust and divert attention from more substantive issues. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author Anushka Vats Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom.
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