The primary goal of this session is to introduce and pass significant amendments to the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008.
In a major move to address long-standing demands for stricter punishment against religious desecration, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha. The session is scheduled for April 13, coinciding with Khalsa Sajna Diwas (Vaisakhi).
The primary goal of this session is to introduce and pass significant amendments to the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008. The state government aims to create a “Zero Tolerance” framework to prevent incidents of sacrilege across Punjab.
The proposed laws are expected to include:
- Ensuring the strictest possible punishment for those found guilty.
- The law will allow the government to seize the properties of offenders and impose massive financial penalties.
- For the first time, the law will also cover desecration or offensive acts committed through digital or online media.
Consultation with Experts and Religious Leaders
Chief Minister Mann held a meeting on Saturday with members of the Sant Samaj and various religious leaders to discuss the draft. He stated that the government is seeking advice from top legal experts across India to ensure the law is foolproof and comprehensive.
The CM has invited leaders from various Sikh sects, including Taksals, Nihang Singh groups, and Nirmala Sampardas, to attend the session and witness the passage of this historic legislation.
Ending the Protest in Samana
The announcement comes amid a long-running protest in Samana, where Bhai Gurjit Singh Khalsa has been demonstrating from atop a tower despite his failing health. To resolve the situation, Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan and MLA Dr. Inderbir Singh Nijjar are expected to visit Samana today. They will urge Singh to end his protest and invite him to be part of the special assembly session on April 13.
Chief Minister Mann emphasized that the government respects the sentiments of the devotees and is fully committed to protecting the dignity of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib and other holy scriptures.
