Akal Takht calls emergency meeting on sacrilege law tomorrow; Bandi Singhs’ release and key clauses on agenda

June 14, 2026

Amritsar: Deep concern is being expressed within the Sikh community regarding objectionable clauses in the proposed ‘Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jagat Jyot Suraksha Act 2026’. In the context of laws concerning sacrilege (‘beadbi’), Sri Akal Takht Sahib has convened an emergency meeting on Monday, June 15, which is considered highly significant. The meeting will be held at the Sri Akal Takht Sahib Secretariat at 11:00 AM.

Representatives from various prominent Sikh organizations (‘jathebandis’), Nihang Singh groups, ‘Kar Seva’sects, ‘Taksals’, various federations, scholars, and several political parties have been invited to the meeting. It is expected that extensive deliberations will take place, with all stakeholders associated with the ‘Panth’ presenting their views.

Objectionable clauses and Sikh rights to be reviewed

According to sources, the primary objective of the meeting is to discuss those clauses of the proposed Act that are deemed objectionable regarding Sikh religious and traditional rights. Additionally, the potential impact of this law on Gurdwara management, religious freedom, and Sikh ‘Maryada'(code of conduct) will be examined.

Media coverage has not been permitted for this crucial meeting, indicating that the deliberations will be of an internal and serious nature. However, the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib is likely to hold a press conference after the meeting concludes, where details regarding the decisions taken may be shared.

Discussion on Balwant Singh Rajoana’s release

The issue of the release of Balwant Singh Rajoana and other imprisoned Sikhs (‘Bandi Singhs’) is also likely to be discussed during the meeting. Sikh organizations have been raising these matters for a long time. Overall, this meeting is considered vital for the Sikh *Panth*, and significant decisions regarding religious, social, and political aspects may emerge from it.