CHANDIGARH, APRIL 17 — The Punjab government has sent a newly passed amendment bill to the Governor’s office, seeking to implement some of the nation’s strictest penalties for the sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib. The Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was forwarded to the Governor following its successful passage in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha.
The legislation represents a major update to the 2008 Act, specifically strengthening the legal framework to deal with acts of desecration. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the bill was drafted to address long-standing public demands for justice and to prevent future incidents. He declared that the provision for life imprisonment reflects the gravity with which the state views such offenses.
Authorities affirmed that the legislative process within the assembly was notable for its cross-party support on April 13. The Chief Minister noted that the administrative path is clear, as the bill pertains to state-level legislation and should be processed by the Governor without federal intervention. He maintained that the state is committed to ensuring that those who attempt to disrupt social peace through sacrilege face the full weight of the law.
The bill’s arrival at the Raj Bhawan has drawn significant attention from religious and political organizations across the state. Government officials stated that the integration of conspiracy charges into the amendment is a critical feature, as it allows law enforcement to target the planners behind such crimes. The state remains in anticipation of the Governor’s final nod to formalize the act.
