Chandigarh, 19 April (H.S.): The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has officially implemented the ‘Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Amendment Bill’ after receiving assent from the Governor. The legislation mandates life imprisonment for those found guilty of desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

Addressing a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema termed the move a decisive step to uphold communal harmony and protect the sanctity of religious scriptures. He alleged that incidents of beadbi had occurred during previous regimes, particularly citing the Nakodar incident of 1986 and the Bargari and Behbal Kalan cases of 2015.

Cheema criticized earlier governments for failing to deliver justice, stating that multiple commissions and Special Investigation Teams were formed, but key evidence went missing and investigations remained incomplete. “Culprits and conspirators were shielded from the law for years,” he said.

Highlighting developments since 2022, the minister said the current government has accelerated long-pending investigations. “For the first time, influential individuals who previously enjoyed political protection have been compelled to seek anticipatory bail,” he added, reiterating the government’s commitment to bring all offenders to justice, regardless of status.

Explaining the provisions of the new law, Cheema said it is comprehensive and leaves no room for offenders to escape. It not only targets those directly involved in acts of desecration but also holds masterminds and conspirators accountable. The legislation also addresses the misuse of “mental instability” as a defense, making guardians or custodians liable in cases of negligence.

Concluding, Cheema said the law fulfills a key promise made by the government and AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal. He described it as a strong legal framework aimed at safeguarding religious dignity and maintaining peace in Punjab.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH