The Punjab Assembly, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, has completed its discussion on the proposed 'Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scripture(s) Act, 2025'. The bill, introduced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday, seeks to impose strict penalties for acts of sacrilege against religious scriptures.
Following a detailed debate in the House on Tuesday, the bill has not yet been passed. Instead, on the CM's recommendation, it has been forwarded to a Select Committee for further review.
Public and Religious Bodies to Be Consulted
The Select Committee will now seek input from religious organizations, spiritual leaders, and the general public before the bill is reconsidered in the Assembly. The committee has been allotted a six-month period to gather suggestions and prepare its report.
Severe Punishment Proposed for Sacrilege
The legislation proposes harsh penalties, including life imprisonment, for anyone found guilty of insulting or desecrating sacred texts such as the Guru Granth Sahib, Bhagavad Gita, Bible, and Quran. For attempted sacrilege, the bill suggests a jail term ranging from three to five years, and those who assist in such acts would be penalized in proportion to their involvement.
According to a government spokesperson, the intent behind the bill is to uphold communal harmony and peace in Punjab. The move follows a number of past incidents involving the desecration of religious scriptures, which have caused widespread public outrage and unrest.
Background and Political Reactions
Before its introduction in the Assembly, the bill received cabinet approval during a meeting chaired by CM Mann. Leader of Opposition Pratap Singh Bajwa acknowledged the seriousness of sacrilege-related incidents, indicating a shared concern across party lines, though the opposition is expected to scrutinize the bill’s scope and implications.
What Lies Ahead
Once the Select Committee completes its consultations and submits its recommendations, the bill will be reintroduced in the Assembly for final approval. The government maintains that this legislation will act as a strong deterrent against sacrilege and promote religious respect and unity across communities.
