Amritsar/Chandigarh, May 3, 2026 (Yes Punjab News):
The Akal Takht, the highest temporal authority of the Sikh community, has summoned Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan to appear on May 8 at 11 AM in connection with concerns surrounding the recently enacted anti-sacrilege legislation.
Acting Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargaj said the summons seeks clarification on why the supremacy of the Akal Takht was allegedly overlooked during the formulation of the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026.
Concerns Raised by Akal Takht
Gargaj stated that the law was framed without adequate consultation with the Sikh Panth and without taking key religious institutions into confidence, including the Akal Takht and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
He emphasised that any decision related to the dignity, protection and service of Guru Granth Sahib must involve broader community consultation and adhere to established religious traditions.
While reiterating that the Panth supports strict punishment for those guilty of sacrilege, the Jathedar cautioned that sensitive religious matters should not be decided unilaterally by the government. He also flagged concerns over certain provisions, including the possible publication of religious information online, which could raise privacy and security issues.
These issues were discussed in a meeting held at Bhai Gurdas Hall in Amritsar, attended by representatives of Sikh organisations, scholars and legal experts. Participants reportedly pointed out gaps in the law, including lack of clarity regarding responsibilities of Gurdwara managements and Granthi Singhs.
The meeting also raised the issue of the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences, including the long-pending case of Balwant Singh Rajoana.
Sandhwan’s Response
Responding to the development, Sandhwan acknowledged the supremacy of the Akal Takht and said he would present himself there “as a humble Sikh.” He reiterated that the Akal Takht holds the highest temporal authority for Sikhs worldwide and said it is his duty to appear whenever called.
However, he added that he has not yet received any formal written communication regarding the summons.
Government’s Stand
Meanwhile, AAP leader Bikramjit Singh Pasi defended the legislation, stating that the move by the Bhagwant Mann-led government is aimed at ensuring strict punishment for sacrilege cases and safeguarding Sikh sentiments.
The Punjab government had notified the amended law last month after convening a special session of the Vidhan Sabha on April 13 to strengthen provisions against ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege) and uphold the sanctity of the Guru Granth Sahib.
Key Provisions of the Law
The amended Act provides stringent punishments for sacrilege offences, including:
- Minimum 7 years’ imprisonment, extendable up to 20 years, along with fines ranging from ₹2 lakh to ₹10 lakh
- In cases involving conspiracy to disturb communal harmony, imprisonment of up to life term and fines up to ₹25 lakh
Recently, the Punjab Police registered the first case under the new law in Muktsar district after torn pages of a religious text were found in Malout. The FIR includes provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the amended Act.
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