Will Punjab Government Ensure Life Imprisonment for Sacrilege?
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Synopsis
Punjab's Chief Minister is pushing for strict laws to combat sacrilege against holy texts, including life imprisonment for offenders. This legislative move aims to protect communal harmony and ensure justice for sacred beliefs, marking a pivotal moment in the state's legal framework.
Key Takeaways
- Strict penalties for sacrilege, including life imprisonment.
- The Bill is set for debate in the Punjab Assembly.
- Aims to address the legal gap in sacrilege cases.
- Targeting communal harmony and religious respect.
- Severe punishment for offenders and accomplices.
Chandigarh, July 14 (NationPress) Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann introduced the Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scripture(s) Bill, 2025 on Monday, targeting severe penalties for the grievous act of sacrilege, including life imprisonment. This critical legislation is set for discussion on Tuesday.
Following a request by Opposition Leader Partap Singh Bajwa to either postpone the debate to allow further review or to send the Bill to a select committee for detailed examination, Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan agreed to proceed with the scheduled debate on Tuesday. Earlier, the Cabinet, under Chief Minister Mann, endorsed the Bill.
A representative from the Chief Minister’s Office highlighted the numerous past incidents of sacrilege related to Sri Guru Granth Sahib and other sacred texts, which have significantly hurt public sentiment and disturbed societal peace.
While existing laws in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita of 2023 touch upon such offenses, they fail to impose sufficiently harsh penalties to act as a real deterrent.
Recognizing the seriousness of these offenses and the need to maintain communal harmony and religious respect, the Cabinet felt compelled to enact state-specific legislation that includes tougher penalties, such as life imprisonment, for anyone convicted of sacrilege against holy texts.
The proposed Bill stipulates severe punishment, potentially leading to life imprisonment for desecrating revered texts like the Guru Granth Sahib, Bhagavad Gita, Holy Bible, Quran Sharif, and others.
Through this new law, the state aims to fortify the principles of communal harmony, brotherhood, peace, and mutual respect, according to a government spokesperson.
This legislation is also intended to serve as a formidable deterrent against anti-social and anti-national actions by enforcing harsh penalties on offenders of this serious crime.
Historically, no specific laws have directly addressed offenses against holy texts, often leading to leniency or avoidance of serious consequences for those responsible.
The new Act seeks to bridge this legislative gap, criminalizing sacrilege and delineating punishments applicable to all religions and sects.
Under the terms of the proposed law, individuals guilty of sacrilege could face imprisonment ranging from 10 years to life. Those attempting such acts may receive sentences of three to five years, while accomplices will be penalized based on the nature of the principal offense.
Point of View
I recognize the significance of the Punjab government's actions in addressing sacrilege. This Bill, while essential for communal harmony, raises questions about its implementation and the balance between law and religious sentiments. It's crucial that we approach this with a commitment to justice for all communities.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scripture(s) Bill, 2025?
This Bill aims to impose strict penalties, including life imprisonment, for acts of sacrilege against holy texts in Punjab.
What prompted the introduction of this Bill?
Numerous incidents of sacrilege against revered texts have hurt public sentiment and disturbed societal peace, prompting the need for stricter laws.
What are the penalties under this Bill?
The Bill stipulates imprisonment from 10 years to life for sacrilege, with lighter penalties for attempts and abetment.
How does this Bill differ from existing laws?
Existing laws do not impose severe enough penalties, while this Bill provides specific and stringent punishments for sacrilege.
What impact does the government expect from this legislation?
The government hopes this law will enhance communal harmony and deter anti-social activities related to sacrilege.
