Chandigarh, April 19 (NationPress) The Governor of Punjab, Gulab Chand Kataria, has officially approved the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which introduces severe penalties for acts of ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege) against the revered Guru Sahib.

The Punjab Assembly, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, unanimously passed this Bill on April 13 as a tribute to the Guru Granth Sahib.

This legislation now stipulates life imprisonment for those guilty of ‘beadbi’, establishing one of the most stringent legal frameworks in India to combat such offenses. It also mandates prompt investigations, renders offenses non-bailable, and imposes strict penalties ranging from five years to life imprisonment, along with fines reaching up to Rs 20 lakh. Furthermore, anyone assisting in such acts will also face legal repercussions.

In response to this significant development, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced on Sunday that the Bill has now become law following the Governor's endorsement, marking a pivotal legislative move to preserve the dignity of the sacred scripture.

In a message on X, CM Mann expressed, “The Bill against the ‘beadbi’ of Sri Guru Granth Sahib-ji has been officially signed by Governor Gulab Chand Kataria. I am truly thankful to Waheguru for allowing me this opportunity to serve. My sincere gratitude extends to the entire Sangat.”

Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains described this milestone as a “momentous and historic occasion” for everyone.

He stated, “The Bill enacted on April 13, coinciding with Vaisakhi, is now operational as the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Satkar Act, 2026. I extend my congratulations to not only Sikhs but all individuals who cherish Sri Guru Granth Sahib-ji, as this law embodies the shared faith and emotions of millions.”

Minister Baljit Kaur noted, “This day is both fortunate and historic. This law will serve as a formidable deterrent against those who commit acts of ‘beadbi’ intending to sow discord within society. The Mann government has achieved what previous administrations failed to do, despite their claims of safeguarding Panthic values.

This law will guarantee severe penalties and foster communal harmony by curbing any efforts to incite hatred in the name of religion.”

AAP lawmaker Inderbir Singh Nijjar characterized the bill's enactment as a historic moment for Punjab.

“With unanimous passage in the Vidhan Sabha and now receiving the Governor’s approval, I commend CM Bhagwant Singh Mann for introducing the Bill with integrity and determination. I am optimistic that the law's strict provisions will deter future incidents of ‘beadbi’, as offenders will think twice before engaging in such acts,” he remarked.

MP Malvinder Singh Kang stated, “This law represents a crucial advancement in fulfilling a longstanding demand from Sikhs worldwide for rigorous penalties against ‘beadbi’. It will instill fear among potential offenders and ensure justice. I express my gratitude to Waheguru and the Mann government for transforming the sentiments of Punjab’s populace into a robust legal framework.”