Punjab Government to Strengthen Anti-Sacrilege Legislation in Special Assembly Session
In a significant move to address religious sensitivities, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared on Saturday that the state government will convene a special session of the Vidhan Sabha on April 13, coinciding with Baisakhi, also known as Khalsa Sajna Diwas. The primary objective of this session is to amend the existing Jagt Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008, and introduce a more robust and comprehensive law aimed at preventing 'beadbi,' or religious sacrilege, particularly of the Guru Granth Sahib and other sacred texts.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Legislation
The proposed amendments are designed to create a stricter legal framework with zero tolerance for acts of desecration. According to an official spokesperson, the new law will include:
- Stringent Punishments: Exemplary penalties for perpetrators to act as a deterrent.
- Heavy Fines: Significant financial penalties for those found guilty.
- Property Confiscation: Authorities may seize assets of offenders as part of the punishment.
- Digital Content Coverage: The legislation will explicitly address offenses committed through digital platforms, ensuring that sacrilege via online means is also punishable.
The draft of this legislation is being prepared in close consultation with the Sant Samaj, a collective of religious leaders, and legal experts. Additionally, opinions from eminent lawyers across the country will be sought to ensure the law is thorough and effective.
Engagement with Religious Communities
During a meeting held at the Circuit House in Sri Amritsar Sahib, CM Mann engaged with members of the Sant Samaj and various religious groups, including sects, Taksals, Nihang Singh groups, Udasi sects, Nirmala sects, Kar Seva groups, Ragis, and Kathavachaks. He emphasized the government's respect for the sentiments of the Sant Samaj and devotees, stating, "The Punjab government respects the sentiments of Sant Samaj and devotees and is committed to bringing a strict law that will deter any mischievous elements from committing acts of 'beadbi.'"
Mann invited these groups to attend the special session and witness the passage of what he termed a "historic legislation." He also mentioned that Speaker and MLA Inderbir Singh Nijjar will soon visit Samana to persuade Gurjeet Singh Khalsa to end his protest and invite him to the session, highlighting efforts to ensure broad participation and consensus.
Government's Stance and Future Actions
In a post on X, CM Mann reiterated the government's commitment, stating, "We regard the sacred Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji as the Shabad Guru, from whom we receive teachings on truth, service, and humanity. If anyone attempts to hurt our faith through desecration, they will never be forgiven. The guilty will be given strict and exemplary punishment, and stringent laws will be enacted to protect the faith and honour of Punjab."
Earlier discussions with the Sant Samaj also highlighted demands to expedite pending cases of desecration to ensure swift justice. The government's proactive approach aims to address these concerns through legislative action, reinforcing its dedication to upholding religious integrity and community harmony in Punjab.
