The BJP’s Punjab President, Sunil Jakhar, has urged Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to release the draft of a proposed law aimed at preventing sacrilege of religious scriptures and idols. Jakhar emphasized the importance of public disclosure, stating that all political parties and religious organizations should be involved in discussions regarding the new law. He highlighted the need for transparency in the law-making process, especially concerning amendments to the existing legislation.
Jakhar stressed the significance of considering broad public opinion on the sensitive issue of preventing sacrilege. He called for the draft amendments to Act No. 21 of 2008 to be shared in advance with recognized political parties, Legislative Assembly members, and relevant religious institutions. Jakhar underlined that the issue goes beyond legality, touching upon social sensitivity and religious beliefs, requiring a comprehensive and constitutional discussion.
The BJP President pointed out the introduction of the Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scriptures Bill, 2025 in the Punjab Assembly on July 14, 2025. He highlighted the formation of a Select Committee to review the Bill and urged for the committee’s report to be made public. Jakhar emphasized the need for transparency in the legislative process, especially as the AAP government considers new legislation or amendments related to sacrilege cases.
Jakhar emphasized the importance of including public opinions, religious institutions, and political stakeholders in the decision-making process. He called for MLAs to be provided with complete information to fulfill their constitutional roles effectively. Jakhar stressed the necessity of thorough examination and discussion of any sensitive Bill before deliberation, advocating for the advance release of the complete draft of the proposed amendments scheduled for introduction in the Legislative Assembly on April 13.
