Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
The Legislature of the State of Punjab has enacted the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026 to further strengthen the provisions of the 2008 law aimed at ensuring the sanctity and respect of Sri Guru Granth Sahib.
The amendment introduces several significant changes to the existing Act. One of the key updates is the replacement of the terms “Bir” and “Birs” with “Saroop” and “Saroops” throughout the legislation, aligning terminology with commonly accepted religious usage.
The revised preamble expands the scope of the law to prevent unauthorized printing, publication, storage, distribution, or supply of the Saroops. It also emphasizes the need to penalize acts of sacrilege and create a strong deterrent framework. The amendment notes a rise in incidents of deliberate sacrilege, highlighting the urgency of stricter legal provisions.
A new definition of “sacrilege” has been introduced, covering intentional acts such as physical damage, burning, tearing, theft, or any expression spoken, written, or digital that hurts the religious sentiments of the Sikh community.
The law also establishes new administrative measures. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee will maintain a central digital and physical register of all Saroops, including details such as printing, distribution, storage, and custodians. These records will be updated regularly and made accessible online.
Additionally, custodians of Saroops will now have clearly defined responsibilities, including ensuring safe custody and immediately reporting any damage or suspected sacrilege to authorities.
The amendment strengthens enforcement by mandating that investigations be conducted by senior police officers and completed promptly. All offences under the Act are classified as cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable, and will be tried in Sessions Courts.
Punishments have also been significantly enhanced. General violations can attract imprisonment of up to five years and fines up to ₹10 lakh. Acts of sacrilege carry a minimum sentence of seven years, extendable up to 20 years, along with fines. In cases involving conspiracy to disrupt communal harmony, punishment may extend to life imprisonment and fines up to ₹25 lakh.
The Act will come into force on a date to be notified by the State Government in the Official Gazette.
Officials stated that the amendment aims to ensure stricter protection of religious sentiments and maintain communal harmony across the state.