Chandigarh, Apr 13 (PTI) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced on Monday that a newly passed bill proposing stricter punishments, including life imprisonment, for acts of desecration against the Guru Granth Sahib, will ensure no one dares to indulge in such heinous crimes. During a debate on the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, at a special session of the Vidhan Sabha, Mann asserted that this legislation signified an end to the desecration of the holy text in the future.
He characterised the legislation as “a historic correction of past regimes’ failures,” emphasising that it closes long-standing loopholes left by previous governments. The new law ensures swift investigations, makes offences non-bailable, prescribes stringent penalties, and holds even those who assist in ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege) equally accountable.
Mann highlighted that while the Akali-BJP and Congress sought votes in the name of ‘Guru Sahib,’ it is the AAP government that has taken concrete steps to uphold the sanctity of the Guru Granth Sahib and ensure that no one dares to commit such acts again.
Describing these acts as “a sin committed against humanity” perpetrated by a handful of anti-social elements intent on causing discord, Mann stated, “This legislation will ensure that anyone found guilty of this unpardonable offence will not be spared, and exemplary action will be taken against them as a deterrent for others.” Emphasising the significance of the legislation, Mann stated, “If Sri Guru Granth Sahib is not safe in Punjab, then where else can it be?” He referred to the legislation as a historic milestone in combating sacrilege, stating, “Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is a repository of universal brotherhood, secularism, and socialism that guides the destiny of mankind. The message and philosophy of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is relevant across the globe and fosters harmony, oneness, peace, and compassion.” Quoting the Gurbani, the chief minister said, “Pawan Guru, Paani Pitaa, Mata Dharat Mahat.” He explained that the great Gurus equated air (pawan) with teacher, water (paani) with father, and land (dharat) with mother, teaching valuable life lessons that remain relevant today.
Mann asserted that since Sri Guru Granth Sahib is regarded as a living Guru, every Punjabi, especially Sikhs, respects it and follows its teachings.
Regarding the bill, he stated that it would ensure that anyone committing the heinous crime of sacrilege would face severe consequences, with future generations remembering the punishment given to their ancestors.
On procedural matters, Mann noted, “As this is a state bill, presidential assent is not required. After being passed by the state assembly, the bill will be sent to the governor. If there is a delay, I will personally urge the governor to expedite the process.” He remarked that while the opposition often visits the governor to lodge complaints against him, they could join him in supporting this noble cause as well.
Without taking names, Mann pointed out that those responsible for sacrilege had appeared before Sri Akal Takht Sahib and confessed their crimes publicly. “However, as it doesn’t suit their political ambitions, they took a U-turn and said that some people were playing into the hands of central agencies to defame them. The entire state knows the real face of these leaders who have always misled the people through their political gimmicks,” he said.
Mann also noted that perpetrators of sacrilege often pretend to be mentally unstable, but the new legislation stipulates that the guardians of such individuals will be held accountable for this unpardonable crime.
“The definition of ‘custodian’ has been introduced, making each custodian fully responsible for the safe custody, protection, and prevention of misuse or loss,” he said, adding that provisions have been made to ensure timely and efficient investigation of cases, and the offences under this law will be non-bailable and non-compoundable.
After the bill’s passage, Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan raised the Sikh slogan ‘Jo Bole So Nihal,’ to which members responded, ‘Sat Sri Akal.’ PTI CHS MPL MPL
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