July 31, 2025

Chandigarh – The select committee of the Punjab Assembly is actively seeking public input on the recently proposed anti-sacrilege bill, making efforts to engage stakeholders and communities across the state. This initiative was announced via a public notice highlighting the need for consultation with various stakeholders, from individuals to religious and civil organizations. The Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scripture Bill, 2025, introduced on July 14, aims to impose strict penalties for any acts of sacrilege against religious texts, including the Guru Granth Sahib, Bhagavad Gita, Bible, and Quran. Notably, this bill seeks to impose severe punishment, with offenders facing a potential life sentence for serious infractions. In an effort to collect diverse viewpoints, the select committee provided a dedicated WhatsApp number, 8054495560, and two email addresses (secy-vs-punjab@nic.in and pvs.legislation@gmail.com) for individuals to submit their suggestions. The deadline for public input is set for August 31. The committee is not only focusing on responses from the general public but also encourages feedback from experts, non-government organizations, and representatives from various religious institutions. Additionally, the public is urged to share their opinions through the MLAs representing their constituencies, as well as using traditional postal services. The need for the anti-sacrilege bill arose from increasing instances of disrespect towards religious texts in Punjab. The anti-sacrilege bill, which received unanimous support from the Punjab Assembly, was referred to the select committee for a thorough examination and community input. Formed on July 19 and chaired by MLA Inderbir Singh Nijjar, the select committee is composed of 15 members. It began its discussions shortly after its formation, holding its first meeting on July 24. This committee is tasked with gathering and evaluating the public suggestions it receives and is expected to submit its report on the bill within six months. Under the proposed legislation, harsh penalties await those found guilty of acts classified as sacrilege. Offenders can face imprisonment of 10 years to life, depending on the severity of their crime, which is specified in detail in the bill. Moreover, individuals guilty of sacrilege are subject to fines ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh. The proposed definition of sacrilege includes actions like damage, destruction, desecrating, or disfiguring any holy scripture or part thereof. The bill also outlines consequences for individuals attempting sacrilege, suggesting a prison sentence of three to five years and fines potentially up to ₹3 lakh. Moreover, those aiding or abetting this offence can also be prosecuted in accordance with the offense committed. This public outreach initiative aims to ensure that any legislation passed by the Punjab Assembly represents the collective sentiments and beliefs of its citizens. By involving the public in shaping important laws like the anti-sacrilege bill, the Assembly hopes to foster a sense of ownership and belonging within the community, especially concerning matters as significant as religious sentiments. As the deadline approaches, the Assembly encourages everyone to participate actively in this crucial discourse.

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Tags: Punjab assembly, Anti-sacrilege bill, Public consultation, Sacrilege, Legislation,