Sacrilege Protests Resurge in Punjab Ahead of Legislative Session
Dharna, draft law, and politics: sacrilege issue regains traction in Punjab
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
A protest in Samana, Patiala district, Punjab, has gained momentum as activists demand stricter laws against sacrilege ahead of a special legislative session on April 13, 2026. The ongoing dharna, which began on February 24, 2026, highlights the long-standing political and emotional issues surrounding sacrilege in the state, especially following past incidents that have shaped electoral narratives.
- 01The dharna in Samana, Punjab, has entered its 46th day, disrupting local life and drawing political attention.
- 02Protesters are demanding a stricter sacrilege law coinciding with the upcoming special Vidhan Sabha session on April 13, 2026.
- 03The protest is linked to historical events, including police violence during past sacrilege protests in 2015.
- 04Local traders support stricter laws but express frustration over the prolonged blockade affecting their businesses.
- 05Opposition parties are calling for transparency regarding the proposed sacrilege law, emphasizing the need for public consultation.
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The ongoing dharna at Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Chowk in Samana, Patiala district, Punjab, has become a focal point for demands for stricter laws against sacrilege, coinciding with a special Vidhan Sabha session scheduled for April 13, 2026. This protest, initiated on February 24, 2026, supports Gurjeet Singh Khalsa, who has been atop a BSNL tower since October 14, 2024, advocating for justice related to sacrilege incidents that have plagued Punjab's political landscape since 2015. The date is significant as it marks the anniversary of police violence during protests against sacrilege, which left two villagers dead. The ongoing dharna has disrupted daily life, blocking key routes and causing tensions between protesters and local residents. While local traders support stricter laws, they express frustration over the blockade's impact on their livelihoods. Political dynamics are intensifying, with various parties, including the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Shiromani Akali Dal, engaging in the debate. Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has promised to present a draft of the proposed law to the protest site after its passage. Meanwhile, opposition leaders are demanding transparency regarding the sacrilege law, highlighting the need for public consultation before its introduction. As the April 13 session approaches, the dharna reflects a broader struggle over governance, public sentiment, and the political narrative in Punjab.
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The ongoing dharna disrupts local businesses and daily routines in Samana, affecting residents and traders alike. The demand for stricter laws on sacrilege may lead to significant changes in governance and public policy in Punjab.
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