Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Announces Stricter Sacrilege Legislation
In a significant move to curb religious offenses, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared on Monday that perpetrators of sacrilege incidents will no longer evade legal consequences. Speaking in the Vidhan Sabha in Chandigarh, Mann praised the newly introduced Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, as a pivotal step toward fostering communal harmony and respect for religious sentiments across the state.
Key Provisions of the Amended Act
The legislation amends the existing Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act of 2008, introducing several stringent measures:
- Enhanced Penalties: Punishments now include life imprisonment and fines up to Rs 20 lakh for severe acts of desecration.
- Non-Bailable Offenses: All offenses under this law are designated as non-bailable and non-compoundable, ensuring stricter legal proceedings.
- Custodian Responsibility: A new definition of 'custodian' holds guardians accountable for preventing misuse or loss, with provisions to book them if the accused feigns mental illness.
Detailed Punishment Structure
Mann outlined a categorized approach to offenses, with punishments tailored to the severity of the act:
- General Violations: Up to 5 years imprisonment and a Rs 10 lakh fine for breaches of the Act's provisions.
- Desecration of Holy Scripture: 7 to 20 years imprisonment and fines ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
- Desecration with Intent to Disturb Harmony: 10 years to life imprisonment and fines from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 25 lakh.
- Abetment: Similar penalties as the main offense, ensuring accomplices face equal consequences.
- Attempted Offenses: 3 to 5 years imprisonment and fines between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 3 lakh.
Emphasis on Timely Investigation and Deterrence
The CM highlighted that the bill includes provisions for timely and efficient investigation of cases, aiming to expedite justice. Mann emphasized that this legislation serves as a strong deterrent against malicious acts, ultimately contributing to peace and national unity in Punjab. By addressing loopholes, such as false claims of mental instability, the law aims to uphold religious sentiments and prevent future incidents of sacrilege.
