Punjab BJP Leader Advocates Law on Sacrilege for All Faiths
Synopsis
In a call for unity against sacrilege, Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar urges the government to extend legislation beyond the Guru Granth Sahib to protect all religions. This comes after the recent approval of a Bill imposing stringent penalties for sacrilege.
Key Takeaways
Punjab Governor approved a Bill for stricter penalties on sacrilege against Guru Granth Sahib.
BJP chief Sunil Jakhar calls for legislation to protect all religions.
The law mandates life imprisonment for sacrilege offenses.
The government is urged to expedite the introduction of a comprehensive sacrilege law.
The new law ensures rapid investigations and severe penalties for offenders.
Chandigarh, April 19 (NationPress) Following the approval from Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria for a Bill that enforces stricter penalties for ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege) against the Guru Granth Sahib, Sunil Jakhar, the state BJP president, has called on the government to introduce legislation that addresses sacrilege across all faiths.
In a move to honor the Guru Granth Sahib, the Assembly, presided over by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, unanimously passed the Bill on April 13.
In a social media post, Jakhar expressed: “I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Hon’ble Punjab Governor Shri Gulab Chand Kataria for endorsing the Jagaat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Respect Amendment Bill, 2026.”
“With this law now enacted, individuals found guilty of sacrilege will be subjected to severe penalties. Furthermore, we anticipate that the Punjab government will promptly present the comprehensive draft law concerning sacrilege of all religions, which is presently with the select committee, to the Assembly for enactment to safeguard against such offenses across various faiths.”
The BJP chief noted that the enactment of this law has paved the way for imposing strict consequences on those who desecrate the Guru Granth Sahib.
He also urged the state administration to expedite the consideration and passage of the draft law, which was referred to the select committee during the previous Assembly session.
Jakhar emphasized the necessity for a law to protect consecrated idols and religious texts from sacrilege across all religions, including Hinduism, given the involvement of divisive elements in these reprehensible acts recently.
He insisted that the government should prioritize presenting and passing this law in the Assembly, as this is a pressing demand from people of all faiths.
The new legislation mandates life imprisonment for ‘beadbi’, establishing one of the most stringent legal frameworks in the nation to combat such offenses. It ensures rapid investigations, categorizes offenses as non-bailable, and prescribes stringent penalties ranging from five years to life imprisonment, alongside fines reaching up to Rs 20 lakh. Additionally, it holds those who assist in ‘beadbi’ equally liable.
Point of View
The recent developments regarding sacrilege laws in Punjab present a pivotal moment in addressing interfaith respect and legal accountability. The call for comprehensive legislation reflects a growing consensus on the need for protective measures for all religions, promoting unity and respect in a diverse society.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recent Bill passed in Punjab?
The Punjab Assembly passed a Bill enacting stricter penalties for sacrilege against the Guru Granth Sahib, which has now received assent from the Governor, allowing for severe legal consequences.
What does Sunil Jakhar propose?
Sunil Jakhar advocates for a draft law to address sacrilege across all religions, emphasizing the need for protective measures for all faiths.
What penalties does the new law impose?
The new law stipulates life imprisonment for sacrilege, along with non-bailable offenses and fines up to Rs 20 lakh.
Why is this law significant?
This law is significant as it establishes one of the toughest frameworks in India to combat sacrilege, aiming to deter future offenses and promote respect for all religions.
What is meant by 'beadbi'?
'Beadbi' refers to acts of disrespect or sacrilege against religious texts and figures, particularly concerning the Guru Granth Sahib in this context.
