In a significant step toward imposing strict penalties for acts of sacrilege, the Punjab Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, gave its nod on Monday to the landmark Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scripture(s) Bill, 2025.
This key decision was made during a meeting of the Council of Ministers held at the Chief Minister’s official residence.
According to a spokesperson from the CM’s Office, there have been several distressing instances in the past involving the desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji and other sacred texts, which have caused deep emotional hurt and societal unrest. Although Sections 298, 299, and 300 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 touch upon such offences, they lack strong punitive measures to effectively deter such acts. Acknowledging the seriousness of these crimes and the need to uphold communal harmony and religious reverence, the Cabinet found it necessary to introduce a state-level law prescribing stricter punishment—including life imprisonment—for those found guilty of disrespecting any holy scripture.
The newly approved Bill prescribes severe penalties, including life sentences, for sacrilege committed against sacred texts such as the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Bhagavad Gita, Holy Bible, Quran Sharif, and other religious scriptures. With this legislation, the Punjab government aims to reinforce peace, mutual respect, and communal unity while sending a clear message against anti-social and anti-national behavior.
Previously, the absence of a specific law to address offences against holy scriptures often led to lenient treatment or gaps in legal action. The new Act seeks to close this loophole by criminalizing sacrilege across all religions and ensuring proportionate punishments. Under the proposed law, individuals convicted of sacrilege can face imprisonment ranging from 10 years to life. Those attempting the offence may receive 3 to 5 years of imprisonment, while those abetting such acts will be punished based on the nature of the crime committed.
Approval of Punjab Regulation of Crusher Units, and Stockists and Retailer Rules, 2025
In addition, the Cabinet has approved the Punjab Regulation of Crusher Units, and Stockists and Retailer Rules, 2025, to ensure that these entities operate under a structured and lawful system. These rules have been developed under the Punjab Regulation of Crusher Units, and Stockists and Retailer Act, 2025, which aims to curb the illegal sourcing of sand and gravel by crusher units.
The new rules outline clear procedures, prescribed formats, timelines, designated authorities, and compliance measures to ensure transparent, accountable, and effective enforcement. The objective is to reduce operational ambiguity, prevent tax evasion and illegal mineral trading, and encourage environmentally sustainable, law-abiding operations. These regulations are also expected to improve oversight and significantly reduce illegal mining practices across Punjab.