Speaker Kultar Sandhwan hopes Sacrilege Bill will be passed unanimously in Assembly

Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan announced on Monday that the state government is set to introduce a Bill aimed at significantly strengthening the legal framework and judicial process to combat sacrilege incidents in the state.

He expressed hope that all members of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha—regardless of party affiliation—would unanimously pass the bill. He emphasised that the legislation is vital for maintaining communal harmony, ensuring peace, and upholding the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

Speaking to the media after paying obeisance at the historic Gurdwara Sri Amb Sahib in Mohali, the Speaker extended greetings to the people on the occasion of Baisakhi.

Addressing the issue of sacrilege, Sandhwan acknowledged that past incidents have caused deep anguish within the Sikh Sangat.

“While the government remains steadfast in its commitment to punishing the guilty, there is a critical need for more stringent legal provisions to deter such crimes in the future,” the Speaker stated. The proposed legislation is scheduled for presentation during the current special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha.

The Speaker also provided an update on the legal proceedings regarding the Behbal Kalan and Bargari cases, informing the public that investigations for nearly all cases have been completed. Chargesheets have been filed in court for all but one specific case. The matters are now under active judicial consideration.

When questioned about objections raised by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Sandhwan said there had been ample opportunity in the past to address these concerns. He added that those who failed to deliver justice during their tenure were now in no position to obstruct current efforts.