Punjab Assembly Enacts Stricter Laws Against Sacrilege of Guru Granth Sahib
Punjab Assembly passes Bill with strict provisions against acts of sacrilege
The Hindu
Image: The Hindu
The Punjab Assembly has passed the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, imposing severe penalties, including life imprisonment and fines up to ₹25 lakh (approximately $30,000 USD), for acts of sacrilege against the Sikh holy book. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann emphasized the bill's importance in protecting the Guru Granth Sahib.
- 01The Bill introduces life imprisonment and fines for sacrilege against the Guru Granth Sahib.
- 02It was unanimously passed by the Punjab Assembly during a special session.
- 03Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann highlighted the bill as a historic milestone.
- 04The legislation aims to address loopholes in previous laws.
- 05The Guru Granth Sahib is revered as a living Guru in Sikhism.
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On April 14, 2026, the Punjab Assembly unanimously passed the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which establishes stringent penalties for acts of sacrilege against the Guru Granth Sahib, the revered holy book of the Sikh community. The bill stipulates life imprisonment and fines up to ₹25 lakh (approximately $30,000 USD). Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann presented the bill in a special session, asserting that it addresses long-standing loopholes in previous legislation. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the Guru Granth Sahib, stating, 'If the Sri Guru Granth Sahib is not safe in Punjab, then where else can it be?' Mann described the Guru Granth Sahib as a source of universal values, promoting brotherhood, peace, and compassion, and expressed the bill's significance in preventing sacrilege, known as beadbi.
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This legislation aims to strengthen the protection of the Guru Granth Sahib, ensuring that acts of sacrilege are met with severe consequences, which may deter potential offenses.
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