CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Assures Strict Legal Framework Against Sacrilege, Calls Sri Akal Takht Sahib ‘Supreme’

CHANDIGARH: In a significant move aimed at addressing the concerns of the Sikh community, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Addressing a high-level committee meeting at his official residence, the Chief Minister underscored that the state will maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward acts of beadbi (sacrilege).

CM Mann explicitly stated that Sri Akal Takht Sahib remains the supreme authority for the state, and any legislative measures taken by his administration would be executed with the utmost sensitivity and respect for religious sentiments.

Strengthening the Legal Shield

The core of the discussion centered on the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026. The Chief Minister made it clear that while his government is open to reviewing specific provisions of the law, the foundational pillars of the legislation—namely, life imprisonment and the imposition of heavy fines on perpetrators—are non-negotiable.

“The objective is to create a powerful deterrent against those who commit this heinous offense,” Mann asserted. “The current law has already brought solace to the Sikh Sangat, which has long been distressed by incidents of sacrilege. We will ensure that no loopholes remain that could weaken the effectiveness of this protective framework.”

Collaborative Path Forward

To ensure the legislation is robust, legally sound, and reflective of the community’s needs, the Punjab government has constituted a seven-member committee. This panel comprises a distinguished group of religious leaders, legal experts, and former officials, including former Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, retired Justices Jaspal Singh and Gurbir Singh, as well as representatives from the Damdami Taksal.

The Chief Minister has tasked this committee with initiating a series of structured, regular meetings with the panel established by Sri Akal Takht Sahib. The goal is to evolve a consensus on any necessary amendments while ensuring that the sanctity of the Holy Scripture remains the top priority.

Navigating Constitutional and Religious Sensitivities

Reflecting on the legislative process, the Chief Minister noted that the government opted to amend existing statutes rather than draft entirely new legislation to expedite the process of obtaining gubernatorial approval. He emphasized that the government is navigating this process with both constitutional responsibility and deep religious awareness.

“We are discussing these amendments comprehensively to arrive at an amicable resolution,” the Chief Minister said, adding that he has directed senior administration officials, including the Nodal Officer, to provide full assistance and coordination to the committees.

As the state moves forward, the administration’s focus remains clear: to build a legal structure that is beyond reproach, ensuring that no individual dares to disrupt the peace or offend the collective conscience of the Sikh community. The government remains hopeful that the ongoing deliberations will yield a legislative framework that satisfies the aspirations of the Sikh Panth while standing firm against the challenge of sacrilege.

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