BJP Rajya Sabha MP and former AAP leader Raghav Chadha on Thursday intensified his attack on Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, demanding his resignation over the ongoing controversy surrounding a purported video linked to the Punjab leader.

Chadha alleged that recent developments in the investigation have exposed attempts to suppress the truth by using a fabricated forensic report. His remarks came after Haryana Police registered a case and arrested individuals accused of trying to arrange a fake forensic report connected to the controversial video.

The controversy centres on a purported video allegedly showing a person resembling Bhagwant Mann engaging in objectionable acts in the presence of images of Sikh gurus and Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. The issue had earlier drawn criticism from Sikh religious bodies, with the Akal Takht declaring Mann “guru dokhi” and “Khalsa panth virodhi”.

Questioning Mann’s continuation as chief minister, Chadha claimed that the alleged attempt to procure a fabricated forensic report had removed doubts over whether the video was genuine, manipulated or AI-generated. He also sought a wider probe into the alleged conspiracy, asking investigators to examine whether government officials or public funds were involved in obtaining the report.

According to police, two people have been taken into custody in connection with the case. Investigators are probing allegations that the accused were approached to procure a forged forensic analysis of the video. Police have also indicated that the suspects were not associated with any government-recognised forensic laboratory.

Bhagwant Mann has rejected the allegations, maintaining that the video was fabricated and asserting that technology, including the possible use of masks, was employed to create misleading footage. The Punjab Chief Minister has accused political opponents of using the issue for political purposes.

The controversy has further sharpened political tensions in Punjab, with opposition parties and Sikh organisations stepping up demands for action against the chief minister.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is set to visit the United Kingdom from June 25 to 27 for high-level discussions aimed at ensuring the smooth implementation of the recently concluded India-UK trade agreement.

The visit comes ahead of the scheduled enforcement of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Double Contribution Convention (DCC) on July 15. During the trip, Goyal is expected to engage with senior British officials and industry representatives to review preparedness for the rollout of the landmark agreements.

Focus on implementation issues

During his stay in London, Goyal is expected to meet UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Peter Kyle to discuss key implementation-related matters, including operational frameworks, regulatory coordination and measures to facilitate bilateral trade and investment.

The discussions are also likely to cover industry concerns and unresolved issues related to the practical execution of the agreement, with both countries seeking a seamless transition before the pact comes into force.

Trade pact to take effect from July 15

India and the UK had earlier announced that the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, along with the Double Contribution Convention, would become operational from July 15. The agreement is expected to deepen economic engagement between the two countries by reducing tariffs, improving market access and strengthening investment ties.

The upcoming visit is being viewed as a significant step in ensuring that businesses on both sides are prepared to benefit from the agreement from day one.

The internal crisis within the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has escalated, with both the camp led by Mamata Banerjee and the rebel faction approaching the Election Commission over claims to the party’s leadership and organisational control.

The latest development comes amid an intensifying power struggle within the party following the formation of a parallel leadership structure by dissident leaders. The rebel group, led by Ritabrata Banerjee, has asserted that it represents the “real” Trinamool and has sought official recognition from the poll panel.

Rival camps approach Election Commission

On Tuesday evening, members of the rebel faction met officials of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer and reiterated their claim that they are the legitimate organisational face of the Trinamool Congress. The dissident camp has already announced a separate National Working Committee and appointed its own leadership team.

In response, Mamata Banerjee’s camp has moved swiftly to reinforce its authority. The faction led by the former West Bengal chief minister submitted a fresh list of office-bearers and a reconstituted National Working Committee to the Election Commission, asserting that Mamata Banerjee remains the chairperson of the party.

Internal turmoil deepens

The confrontation marks a new phase in the turmoil that has gripped the Trinamool Congress after its defeat in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. Several senior leaders, including some long-time associates of Mamata Banerjee, have joined the rebel camp, further deepening divisions within the party.

With both factions staking claim to the party’s identity and organisational machinery, the Election Commission may now have to examine competing submissions before deciding on the issue of recognition and control.