Chandigarh, March 22: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced on Saturday that the Punjab government will hold a special Vidhan Sabha session on April 13 to significantly strengthen laws against the desecration of religious texts. The move aims to amend the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008, introducing harsher penalties, including the potential seizure of property and fines for those found guilty of ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege).
The session is scheduled to coincide with Khalsa Sajna Diwas, a date of immense religious significance. During a meeting with the Sant Samaj and various religious leaders in Amritsar, the Chief Minister stated that the draft for the new legislation is being prepared in coordination with legal experts and religious scholars to ensure it withstands judicial scrutiny.
The proposed amendments will also expand the scope of the law to include digital content and online desecration. Chief Minister Mann affirmed that the state maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward such crimes and intends for the new legislation to serve as a powerful deterrent.
“The act will be formed in consultation with Sant Samaj and legal experts,” the Chief Minister declared during the meeting. He added that opinions from eminent lawyers across the country are being sought to ensure the perpetrators receive exemplary punishment.
Government officials confirmed that the legislation will address not only physical acts of sacrilege but also modern offenses committed through digital platforms. The Chief Minister maintained that the state is committed to protecting the faith and honor of all citizens through these stringent measures.
