Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria has given the green light to the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which now imposes harsher penalties for ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege) of the living Guru Sahib. The law, passed unanimously by the Assembly on April 13, mandates life imprisonment for ‘beadbi’, establishing one of the most stringent legal frameworks in the country to address such offenses. It ensures prompt investigations, categorizes offenses as non-bailable, and imposes severe penalties ranging from five years to life imprisonment, along with fines up to Rs 20 lakh, while also holding those aiding ‘beadbi’ equally responsible.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed his satisfaction with the Bill officially becoming law after receiving the Governor’s assent, emphasizing the significance of this legislative move in protecting the sanctity of the holy scripture. The development was hailed by Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains as a “highly auspicious and historic moment” for all, reflecting the collective faith and sentiments of millions who revere Sri Guru Granth Sahib-ji. Similarly, Cabinet Minister Baljit Kaur lauded the law as a crucial deterrent against acts of ‘beadbi’ aimed at sowing discord in society, emphasizing the government’s commitment to upholding Panthic values and promoting communal harmony through strict enforcement.
AAP lawmaker Inderbir Singh Nijjar described the enactment of the Bill as a historic day for Punjab, attributing the success to CM Bhagwant Singh Mann’s courage and sincerity in presenting the legislation. MP Malvinder Singh Kang praised the law as a significant milestone in addressing the longstanding demand of Sikhs worldwide for stringent punishment against ‘beadbi’, expressing confidence that the law’s stringent provisions will deter offenders and ensure justice, thereby translating the sentiments of Punjab’s people into a robust legal framework.
