Punjab Enacts Stricter Anti-Sacrilege Law with Life Imprisonment Penalty

Safeguarding Religious Sanctity: The 2026 Amendment

The Governor of Punjab has granted assent to the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026. This law introduces a stringent legal framework to deter incidents of sacrilege (beadbi) against the holy Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

Key Legal Changes

• Punishment: The offence of sacrilege now carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.


• Fines: Violators can be fined up to ₹25 lakh.


• Legislative Unity: The Bill was passed unanimously by the Punjab Legislative Assembly on April 13, 2026, reflecting the collective will to protect religious sentiments.

For Polity and Social Issues aspirants, this update highlights state-level criminal law amendments regarding public order and religious sanctity.