SGPC Sub-Comittee Convenes to Address Punjab Religious Scriptures Legislation
In Chandigarh, a pivotal meeting of a 15-member high-level sub-committee, established by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), took place on Friday. The assembly focused on deliberating the proposed Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Religious Scriptures Bill, 2025, which aims to address acts of sacrilege against religious texts across all faiths.
Concerns Over Government Statements and Confusion
According to an official SGPC release, members of the sub-committee unanimously expressed that recent remarks by the Chief Minister have generated significant confusion regarding the bill. The chairman of the sub-committee, Justice Mohinder Mohan Singh Bedi (retired), provided clarification, noting that the CM's statement on March 22 specifically pertained to the Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008. This earlier legislation governs the printing, publication, distribution, and supply of the Guru Granth Sahib.
Members voiced deep concern that the government's communications are obscuring the critical distinctions between the 2008 Act and the newly proposed 2025 bill. They emphasized that such blurring could lead to misunderstandings and potential legal inconsistencies.
Lack of Consultation with SGPC Highlighted
The sub-committee also observed that, despite assurances from the Chief Minister that amendments to the 2008 Act would be made after consulting legal experts and religious institutions, no such consultation has been initiated with the SGPC to date. This absence of dialogue has raised questions about the government's commitment to inclusive policymaking and respect for religious authorities.
Key Attendees and Broader Implications
The meeting was attended by prominent figures, including sub-committee chairman retired Justice Bedi, senior advocate Puran Singh Hundal, former district attorney Baltej Singh Dhillon, and former Punjab School Education Board chairman Kehar Singh. Their collective expertise underscores the seriousness with which the SGPC is approaching this issue, aiming to ensure that any legislative changes uphold religious sanctity and involve proper stakeholder input.
This development occurs against a backdrop of global tensions, such as the Israel-Iran conflict, but the SGPC's focus remains firmly on domestic matters affecting religious harmony in Punjab. The sub-committee's deliberations signal a proactive stance by the SGPC in safeguarding religious texts and advocating for clear, consultative governance in legislative processes.
