Punjab Takes A Stand on Religious Respect

The AAP‑led Punjab government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is set to introduce a stringent anti‑sacrilege law in a two‑day special session of the state assembly scheduled for July 10–11. The move aims to fill legal gaps and deter desecration of holy scriptures.

Why This Matters Now

The announcement came days after representatives from the Sarb Dharam Beadbi Rokko Kanoon Morcha protested against perceived loopholes in current legislation. AAP spokesperson Neel Garg emphasized that perpetrators “will no longer escape,” heralding a new era of justice :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.

Legal Context & Timeline

Punjab had attempted to pass sacrilege laws in 2018 under the Amarinder Singh administration, but the bills failed to secure presidential assent :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. Earlier this year, Mann held a June 28 meeting, confirming the need for stronger punishment—possibly including capital punishment—for those who desecrate scriptures :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

Beyond Existing Laws

The proposed law seeks to amend the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) to explicitly include holy books—such as the Guru Granth Sahib, Bhagavad Gita, Quran, and Bible—to avoid offenders going free :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

Roles of Protesters & Leaders

Activists from the Sarb Dharam Beadbi Rokko Kanoon Morcha have been instrumental in pushing for this session. Politicians like Baltej Pannu noted that the law’s intent is to ensure no one “dares to insult” scriptures. CM Mann made it clear that consultations with legal experts and religious groups are underway to draft robust legislation :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

Notable Incidents That Shaped This Move

Punjab has witnessed high‑profile sacrilege incidents. In 2015, the theft and desecration of the Guru Granth Sahib in Bargari led to violent protests and two deaths during police action in Behbal Kalan and Kotkapura—events that fueled public demand for stricter laws :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

Next Steps & What to Watch

The Punjab Cabinet meets on July 7 to finalize the session call. The assembly will then consider a state‑specific BNS amendment that may include harsher penalties—potentially life imprisonment or even capital punishment—while ensuring all religions are covered :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

Source: ThePrint

Source: Theprint