Chandigarh, 20 April (H.S.): In a significant move to ensure effective and transparent investigation of sensitive sacrilege cases, Punjab Police has issued a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). The SOP has been prepared by the Punjab Bureau of Investigation (PBI) with a strong focus on forensic accuracy, protection of digital evidence, and time-bound legal action.
Under the new guidelines, investigations into sacrilege cases will now include detailed scrutiny of digital angles, social media activities, and funding sources. The monitoring of such cases will be carried out directly by the district SSP or Police Commissioner. Additionally, it has been made mandatory to complete the investigation within 60 to 90 days and present the challan within this timeframe.
The SOP outlines six key directives for the police. Firstly, upon receiving information, the SHO and the Investigating Officer (IO) must reach the spot without delay. To ensure the safety of evidence, a two layer security cordon inner and outer will be established at the crime scene to control crowds and preserve crucial evidence.
Keeping in mind religious sensitivity, the ‘angs’ (pages) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji or any other religious symbols will only be handled or moved in the presence of authorized religious representatives and with full respect and protocol. Furthermore, high-resolution photography, videography, and mapping of the crime scene will be conducted, and forensic teams will be immediately deployed.
The police will not limit the investigation to the person apprehended at the scene but will also probe the larger conspiracy and identify potential masterminds behind such incidents. Advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools will be used to analyze misleading social media posts, deepfake videos, and other digital activities. The SOP also includes investigation into suspicious funding through Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.
Moreover, if an accused is found to be mentally unstable, a special board of forensic psychologists will be constituted to assess their mental condition. This step aims to ensure that investigations are carried out in a fair and scientific manner.
As per the sacrilege law implemented by the Punjab government, those found guilty can face a minimum of 10 years of imprisonment, extending up to life imprisonment. A fine ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹25 lakh may also be imposed. These cases are categorized as non bailable. Notably, the proposal regarding this Bill was presented on April 13 and has since received approval from the Governor.
Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH
