Punjab's New Anti‑Sacrilege Law Sparks Religious and Political Clash
The Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab has introduced a new anti‑sacrilege bill that hardens penalties for anyone who defaces the Guru Granth Sibah or any other holy scripture. The legislation defines sacrilege as deliberate desecration, burning, theft or insults and makes it a cognisable, non‑bailable offence. Those found guilty face seven to twenty years in jail and fines up to one million rupees.
Besides the criminal sanctions, the bill mandates a state‑run registration and custody scheme for physical copies of the Guru Granth Sibah, giving the government powers to issue unique ID numbers and maintain a central register. The provision on administrative control of the scripture is the main point of contention for Sikh leaders.
What the Law Covers
Sacrilege now includes not only physical acts such as burning or tearing but also verbal, written or electronic insults that offend Sikh religious sentiment. The law intends to deter future offences and strengthens the state’s response to ongoing controversies over religious sacrilege.
Historical Context
Punjab has seen three attempts to enforce tougher punishments for sacrilege over the last decade. A 2016 proposal for life imprisonment was vetoed by the central government, while a 2018 bill that included multiple sacred texts failed to receive presidential assent. Earlier, the 2008 Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sibah Satkar Act regulated printing and handling of the scripture; the new bill amends that act to introduce harsher penalties.
Political Fallout
Soon after the bill passed, the Akal Takht summoned Punjab’s Assembly speaker, refusing to recognise the law without consultation. The head of the Akal Takht, Kuldip Singh Gargajj, challenged legislators to admit not having read the bill before voting. The crisis has intensified political tensions, with opposition parties accusing the Chief Minister of rushing the legislation and further criticizing a controversial video that allegedly shows him disrespecting Sikh images.
Current Status
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has said the law would not be withdrawn, but he remains open to amendments should the Akal Takht’s concerns be addressed within a month. The controversy is set against the backdrop of upcoming state elections and an ongoing debate over the state’s religious sovereignty.
