Description

In a significant move to uphold religious harmony, the Punjab Government has introduced the Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scriptures Bill, 2025. This proposed legislation aims to criminalise acts of sacrilege against sacred religious texts, imposing strict punishments including life imprisonment and substantial monetary penalties. The Bill seeks to address growing concerns over recent incidents of desecration, which have disrupted peace and communal unity across the state.

About Constitutes An Offence

Under this Bill, an offence is defined as any deliberate action that desecrates or dishonours holy scriptures. This includes acts such as burning, tearing, damaging, defacing, disfiguring, or otherwise violating the sanctity of the scriptures either wholly or partially. The legislation intends to provide equal protection for all religious groups by recognizing offences against scriptures from multiple faiths.

Scriptures Covered Under Bill

The Bill explicitly mentions several religious texts revered in Punjab, including:

• Sri Guru Granth Sahib, along with its extracts like Pothis and Gutka Sahib

• Srimad Bhagavad Gita

• Quran Sharif

• Holy Bible

This inclusive approach reflects Punjab’s religious diversity and the importance of safeguarding spiritual heritage across communities.

Investigation And Law Enforcement

The proposed law mandates that only senior police officers, specifically of the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) or above, can investigate such offences. This provision ensures that these serious matters are handled with urgency and authority, minimizing delays in justice and ensuring thorough investigation.

Punishments And Penalties

Those found guilty of committing sacrilege under this Bill may face:

• Minimum imprisonment of 10 years, extending up to life imprisonment

• Fines ranging between Rupees 5 lakh to Rupees 10 lakh

For attempted acts, the punishment includes 3 to 5 years of imprisonment and fines up to Rupees 3 lakh. Individuals who abet or support such actions are also liable to face similar penalties.

Government’s Rationale And Vision

The introduction of the Bill underscores the state government's commitment to preserving religious peace and emotional integrity. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann emphasized the emotional trauma caused by previous incidents, particularly those involving the Guru Granth Sahib, which he described as a beacon of peace and spiritual unity. The law aims to send a clear deterrent message while restoring public trust in governance.

Legislative Journey And Public Input

The Bill has been tabled in the Punjab Legislative Assembly and subsequently referred to a Select Committee for broader discussions. This move allows for input from diverse stakeholders, ensuring the final law is both balanced and inclusive. The government's approach reflects a desire to create a strong but fair legal framework that aligns with both public order and religious sentiments.

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