Is Punjab's Bill Against Sacrilege Just Another Act of Theatrics?
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Synopsis
Punjab's BJP chief, Sunil Jakhar, raises serious concerns over the AAP government's new Bill against sacrilege, deeming it a performance rather than a real solution. He emphasizes the need for genuine action and accountability in addressing the ongoing issues of sacrilege and land acquisition in the state.
Key Takeaways
- Jakhar's Critique: The Bill is seen as theatrical rather than substantive.
- Consultation Lack: No engagement with religious institutions or legislators prior to the Bill's introduction.
- Sacrilege Statistics: Over 300 incidents reported since 2015, with few convictions.
- Land Acquisition Concerns: Accusations of land grabbing for political allies without public need.
- Legal Action Promised: BJP plans to challenge land acquisition practices.
Chandigarh, July 10 (NationPress) The president of the Punjab BJP, Sunil Jakhar, expressed strong criticism on Thursday regarding the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's special Assembly session aimed at introducing a Bill against sacrilege, branding it yet another performance of theatrics.
He called upon the government to clarify whether consultations with religious institutions were conducted and why the draft Bill was not disseminated among legislators.
The presentation of the Bill in the Assembly is anticipated on Friday.
In a press briefing alongside the newly appointed working president Ashwani Sharma, Jakhar accused the AAP government of exhibiting complete irresponsibility.
He stated that the BJP takes this matter seriously and is open to any authentic initiatives from the government, but urged them to refrain from engaging in drama.
Jakhar pointed out that the failures of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's administration significantly overshadow its publicity efforts.
He highlighted that over 300 sacrilege incidents have transpired in Punjab since 2015 and posed the question of how many offenders have faced conviction under existing laws that permit a two-year sentence.
Jakhar remarked that the draft of the Bill has neither been disclosed to the public nor shared with legislators or religious entities.
He further questioned the measures the government is undertaking to combat those propagating malevolence in the name of religion and proposed that the new law should entail stipulations against leaders visiting religious sites while under the influence of alcohol.
Regarding the land pooling policy, the BJP chief accused the government of seizing extensive land parcels without public need to benefit associates of Arvind Kejriwal, whom he alleged is orchestrating the government from behind the scenes.
He alleged that the powers of land acquisition were shifted from the Chief Minister to the Chief Secretary, and officials are modifying land acquisition laws without cabinet endorsement.
Moreover, the objection period for land acquisition was discreetly shortened from 30 to 15 days without public notification.
Jakhar assured that the BJP is investigating all legal dimensions of this issue and will pursue legal action to prevent this 'theft.'
He committed that no farmer's land would be obtained without their approval.
Expressing concern over the worsening law and order situation, Jakhar stated that under AAP chief Kejriwal's governance, ordinary citizens feel threatened, and fear looms across all sections of society.
When asked, he questioned why AAP leaders remain silent regarding who facilitated the interviews of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi from Punjab jails.
Jakhar also criticized the Congress party, the main opposition in the state, for its silence, asserting that its leaders have already capitulated.
He challenged the Chief Minister to follow through on his previous promise to file cases against certain leaders in the Assembly, questioning his retreat.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the ongoing tensions surrounding sacrilege and land acquisition in Punjab. The political landscape is volatile, with accusations flying between parties. Maintaining law and order and addressing the concerns of citizens should be the priority, transcending political theatrics.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main criticism by Sunil Jakhar regarding the AAP government's Bill?
Sunil Jakhar criticizes the AAP government for introducing the Bill against sacrilege as a mere theatrical performance without proper consultation with religious institutions and legislators.
How many sacrilege incidents have occurred in Punjab since 2015?
Over 300 sacrilege incidents have been reported in Punjab since 2015.
What concerns does Jakhar raise about land acquisition policies?
Jakhar accuses the AAP government of acquiring land without public necessity, benefiting certain individuals, and modifying acquisition laws without proper approvals.
What is the impact of the current law and order situation in Punjab?
Citizens feel unsafe and fear prevails across all sectors of society under the current administration, according to Jakhar.
What legal actions is the BJP considering regarding land acquisition?
Jakhar stated that the BJP is reviewing all legal aspects of land acquisition policies and plans to take the matter to court to protect farmers' rights.
