Gurpreet Singh :- The special session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly commenced on Monday with members paying tributes to noted singer Asha Bhosle and victims of the recent Vrindavan boat tragedy. The House observed a two-minute silence in their memory before proceeding with legislative business.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann introduced the “Jagt Jyot Shri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026,” aimed at prescribing stricter punishment for acts of sacrilege against religious scriptures. The bill is currently under discussion in the House.
Stringent Penalties Proposed
The proposed legislation includes provisions for severe punishment, with life imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹25 lakh for those found guilty of sacrilege. The move comes amid longstanding concerns over repeated incidents of desecration in the state.
The bill also expands its scope to cover scriptures of all major religions, prescribing penalties ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment. Officials stated that the amendments aim to address gaps in earlier legislation, which lacked sufficiently stringent provisions.
Cabinet Nod and Legislative Process
The bill had received approval during a Cabinet meeting held earlier this week. Once passed by the Assembly, it will be forwarded to the Governor for assent. Legal scrutiny will follow to ensure it does not conflict with central laws. Upon approval, it will be enacted as law.
The state government has maintained that, being a state subject, the bill may not require the President’s assent unless any legal conflict arises.
Opposition Raises Concerns
The session is expected to be contentious, with opposition parties gearing up to challenge the government. Amrinder Singh Raja Warring criticised the move, alleging that the special session was an attempt to divert attention from the government’s shortcomings.
He further stated that despite repeated assurances, those responsible for past sacrilege cases and related incidents have not yet been brought to justice.
Timeline for Implementation
If the bill clears all procedural stages without legal hurdles, it is expected to be enacted by the end of April or early May. However, any conflict with central legislation could lead to delays, as the bill may then require Presidential approval.
The development has drawn significant political and public attention, with all eyes now on the Assembly proceedings and the eventual passage of the bill.
