Chandigarh, April 13 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition in Punjab, Partap Singh Bajwa, raised significant concerns on Monday regarding the revisions to the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Bill. He emphasized that while the legislation “merits backing, it is crucial for the government to align its declarations with tangible actions in reality.”

Bajwa commenced the special Assembly session by stating: “Any initiative focused on imposing strict penalties for sacrilege and safeguarding the sanctity of Guru Granth Sahib is commendable.” He asserted, “This matter transcends politics; it is fundamentally tied to faith, emotions, and justice.”

The Assembly unanimously endorsed the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which enforces life imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs 25 lakh for acts of sacrilege (beadbi) against the Guru Granth Sahib. This legislation aims to establish a robust legal deterrent against actions that threaten communal harmony through organized desecration.

Moreover, it designates the Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the religious mini parliament, as the custodian of all ‘saroops’.

In his address, Bajwa declared that the Congress party “supports the amendment Bill in principle and prefers not to engage in disputes over such a sensitive and religious matter.”

Nonetheless, he expressed grave worries about the disparity between the government's declared intentions and its actual performance. He remarked that while “optics are being crafted, the reality on the ground tells a contrasting narrative.”

Bajwa challenged Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, urging him to address pressing questions in the House with genuine seriousness and accountability instead of mere rhetoric. He questioned why the investigations into the Bargari sacrilege, Behbal Kalan firing, and Kotkapura incidents remain unresolved, despite these events profoundly impacting the conscience of Punjab.

He further noted that promises of delivering justice within 48 hours have now extended to 48 months, lacking clear accountability and timelines. Bajwa raised concerns regarding the government's priorities, highlighting that while substantial funds are allocated for publicity, there is no transparent update regarding sacrilege cases.

Addressing decision-making issues, the Congress leader inquired why these sensitive cases were moved outside the state and why AAP legislator Kunwar Vijay Partap Singh, once seen as a pivotal figure in ensuring justice, is silenced in the Vidhan Sabha.

Bajwa pointed out that this marks the fifth attempt to introduce such legislation, yet uncertainty looms over whether it will gain presidential assent. He questioned the government's failure to consult constitutional experts adequately to ensure that these initiatives do not go to waste.