Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria has given assent to a Bill that allows stricter penalties for the sacrilege of Guru Granth Sahib. State BJP chief Sunil Jakhar has urged the government to extend this law to cover sacrilege of all religions. The Bill, passed unanimously by the Assembly on April 13, aims to crack down on sacrilege acts.
Jakhar expressed gratitude to the Governor for approving the Jagaat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Respect Amendment Bill, 2026. The new law will impose severe punishment on those involved in sacrilege. Jakhar hopes that a similar law for all religions, currently with the select committee, will soon be enacted by the Punjab government.
The law, providing for life imprisonment for sacrilege, is one of the strictest in the country. It ensures prompt investigations, non-bailable offenses, and hefty penalties up to Rs 20 lakh. The legislation also holds accountable those aiding sacrilege acts, emphasizing the seriousness of such offenses.
The BJP leader emphasized the importance of preventing sacrilege against all faiths, including Hinduism. He urged the state government to expedite the enactment of a law to safeguard consecrated idols and religious texts. This move is seen as crucial to curb divisive forces engaging in condemnable acts of sacrilege.
