CM says protecting sanctity and maryada of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji remains government’s foremost duty

Chandigarh, 29 September (H.S.): Head of the Nanaksar Sect Baba Lakha Singh on Tuesday met Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann in Chandigarh and appreciated the state government’s Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, aimed at providing stringent punishment in cases of sacrilege.

During the meeting, Baba Lakha Singh presented a Siropa from Guru Ghar to the Chief Minister. He said the legislation was an important step towards safeguarding the honour and sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and addressing concerns within the Sikh community over incidents of sacrilege.

Baba Lakha Singh said repeated incidents of Beadbi had deeply hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community and expressed hope that stricter legal provisions would serve as an effective deterrent against such acts.

The Punjab Assembly had unanimously passed the amended legislation in April. It provides for stringent punishment, including life imprisonment and substantial fines, for sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Expressing gratitude for the blessings, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said protecting the honour, respect and maryada of Shabad Guru, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, was among the foremost responsibilities of his government.

Mann said his government remained committed to following the path shown by the Sikh Gurus while working for Punjab’s development, peace and communal harmony. He said the legislation was intended to ensure strict action against anyone involved in sacrilege and expressed hope that stronger penalties would discourage such incidents in the future.

The Chief Minister said he considered the opportunity to work towards protecting the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji as a service entrusted to him. He added that the government would continue taking all possible measures to safeguard the dignity of Shabad Guru Sahib.

Mann also stressed that maintaining peace and harmony among communities remained an important priority for the state government.

The legislation has, however, also been under discussion with Sikh religious bodies. Sri Akal Takht Sahib has raised objections to certain provisions of the law, including terminology and procedural aspects. The Punjab Government has constituted a seven-member committee to hold consultations with the panel associated with Akal Takht and examine possible amendments while retaining the core provisions against sacrilege.

The Chief Minister said the government’s objective was to create a strong and legally sustainable framework that protects the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji while ensuring peace and harmony in Punjab.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH