AMRITSAR, Sept. 2 -- Punjab language department director Jaswant Singh Zafar on Monday appeared before Akal Takht jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj to submit his clarification regarding violation of Sikh maryada at an event organised by the department to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Teg Bahadur in Srinagar. The Takht had summoned both Punjab education minister Harjot Singh Bains and Zafar after an event held on July 24 in Srinagar sparked a row as members of the audience were seen dancing during the performance of singer Bir Singh.

On August 6, Bains had appeared before the Takht and submitted his clarification. He was awarded tankhah (religious punishment) for atonement, which he subsequently completed.

Zafar, after p...