Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): In a significant legal move, Punjab has formalised a stringent law against sacrilege after receiving approval from Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, paving the way for its enforcement across the state.
The legislation, known as the Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, prescribes life imprisonment—extending until death—along with steep financial penalties for individuals found guilty of desecrating the Sri Guru Granth Sahib.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the development, stating that the bill has now become law and will soon be operationalised through an official notification. The decision comes amid longstanding public demand for stronger legal provisions to address incidents of sacrilege in the state.
The law defines multiple forms of disrespect towards the sacred text as criminal acts. These include physical damage, improper handling, abandonment in public spaces, unauthorised possession, and consumption of intoxicants in its presence. It also covers the creation or dissemination of objectionable content related to the scripture through social media or other platforms.
Authorities have categorised these offences as both non-bailable and cognizable, enabling law enforcement agencies to take immediate action without prior court approval.
While the legislation has been welcomed by sections of society seeking stricter safeguards, it currently applies exclusively to the Sikh holy scripture. There are no explicit provisions addressing sacrilege related to other religious texts such as the Gita, Quran or Bible. The state government has indicated that broader legislation could be introduced in the future following consultations with representatives of different faiths.
Passed during a session held around Vaisakhi, the law reflects the government’s emphasis on preserving religious sanctity while maintaining public order. Officials maintain that the move is aimed at deterring offences and ensuring respect for deeply held religious sentiments.
