Chandigarh, June 28, 2025 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday announced plans to introduce stringent legislation prescribing harsher punishments, including the death penalty, for acts of sacrilege against holy granths, signalling a firm stance on protecting religious sentiments in the state.
Chairing a high-level meeting with officials and representatives of the Sarb Dharam Beadbi Rokko Kanoon Morcha at his official residence, Mann emphasised Punjab’s heritage as a land of saints, seers, and great Gurus who have championed mutual love, tolerance, and communal harmony.
“It is our bounden duty to ensure that those who commit sacrilege face exemplary punishment,” Mann asserted, lamenting the legal loopholes that allow offenders to escape severe consequences. “Such acts are unpardonable, and existing gaps in the law are completely unwarranted and unacceptable.”
The Chief Minister said that the proposed state legislation would close these gaps and create provisions for capital punishment in the gravest cases. Mann stated the government would consult leading legal experts to craft a robust law that can withstand legal scrutiny and ensure justice for the people of Punjab.
He further underscored that the government would engage all stakeholders, including religious organisations, to incorporate their perspectives into the proposed law.
Mann pointed out that while the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) provides protections for religious places, it remains silent on offences specifically targeting holy scriptures. However, he maintained that as the subject falls under the Concurrent List, the state has the legal competence to pass such legislation.
A Cabinet meeting will soon be convened to advance the matter, Mann added, expressing hope that the legislative process would be completed swiftly to address public sentiments on the sensitive issue.
