Punjab News: Beadbi Law Gets Sharper Teeth in Punjab: Cabinet Under CM Bhagwant Mann Approves Life Imprisonment Provision

In a significant move during the Punjab Cabinet meeting held today, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his ministers approved a stringent proposal that could bring life imprisonment as the maximum punishment for acts of sacrilege (beadbi). 

The Beadbi Law refers to legislation that criminalizes acts of sacrilege or desecration of religious scriptures and symbols, particularly sacred texts like the Guru Granth Sahib in Punjab. The proposed amendment aims to make such acts punishable by life imprisonment, reflecting the seriousness of hurting religious sentiments and maintaining communal harmony.

New Amendment to Be Introduced in Vidhan Sabha Session

As per reports from Dainik Bhaskar and official sources, the Punjab government is preparing to table this amendment in the ongoing Vidhan Sabha session. The amendment aims to strengthen existing laws related to religious sacrilege, sending a strong message against such acts that hurt communal sentiments.

Beadbi Cases Will Now Invite Stricter Punishment

Under the new proposed law, any deliberate act of sacrilege against Guru Granth Sahib or other religious texts may invite life imprisonment instead of shorter sentences previously prescribed. This step is seen as a response to recurring incidents that have sparked public outrage in the state over the years.

CM Bhagwant Mann, during his address to the cabinet, emphasized that “Punjab will not tolerate any attack on religious harmony” and called this move a “historic step towards justice” for victims and communities affected by sacrilege incidents.

Political and Social Reactions Expected

The decision is likely to stir debate in political and religious circles, with various parties expected to comment on the constitutional and legal implications of such a law. However, early public sentiment suggests strong support for the government’s tough stance.

The cabinet’s move is in line with the Aam Aadmi Party’s commitment to ensuring law and order, religious respect, and social unity in Punjab.

Further details on the draft amendment and expected implementation timeline will be shared once it is officially introduced in the Assembly.