CHANDIGARH, July 10 — The Punjab government will introduce its draft Bill proposing stricter punishment for acts of sacrilege in the Vidhan Sabha on Friday, but the legislation will not be enacted immediately. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that the Bill will first undergo a public consultation process involving religious bodies, lawmakers, and citizens before it becomes law.
“We want wider public opinion on the issue. A consultative committee will be formed to discuss the provisions of the Bill with all stakeholders before we enact it,” Mann said after presiding over a meeting of the Council of Ministers on Thursday.
Although Mann did not confirm whether the draft Bill will propose capital punishment for sacrilege—something that has drawn sharp debate in the past—he indicated that the government is determined to introduce a state-specific Act, rather than incorporating the changes under the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).
This marks a significant departure from the Centre’s new criminal codes, signaling Punjab’s intent to chart its own legislative course on sensitive religious matters. “We are moving forward with responsibility. This is not just about punishment; it’s about preserving communal harmony and respecting the sentiments of all faiths,” Mann said.
The move comes amid growing political pressure and religious sensitivity surrounding sacrilege incidents in Punjab. Previous efforts to legislate harsh penalties, including death, have either faced legal scrutiny or failed to gain traction. By opting for a phased approach, the Mann government appears keen to balance public sentiment with legal durability.
In the same Cabinet meeting, the state government also approved a universal health insurance scheme aimed at providing broader access to healthcare across Punjab. Details of the scheme are expected to be shared in the Assembly session, but sources indicated it would cover both Below Poverty Line (BPL) and Above Poverty Line (APL) families, with enhanced coverage for critical illnesses.
Additionally, the Cabinet gave its nod to an official resolution that will be tabled in the Vidhan Sabha on Friday, seeking to withdraw Punjab’s earlier consent allowing the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) to deploy central security forces at the Bhakra dams.
The resolution, if passed, could have significant administrative and political implications for the management of water resources shared by multiple states. The move is likely to be watched closely by both the Centre and neighbouring states.
Friday’s Vidhan Sabha session is expected to see intense debate on all three issues, particularly the sacrilege Bill, which remains one of the most emotionally charged subjects in Punjab’s political discourse.
By opting for consultation before implementation, the Mann government has signaled both caution and resolve. “We will not rush this. Let the people’s voice guide us,” the Chief Minister said.
