SGPC Launches Awareness Campaign Against Sacrilege Law in Punjab

May 17, 2026

Amritsar: The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) is installing special flex boards outside Gurdwaras to raise awareness among the ‘Sangat’ (congregation) regarding the Punjab government’s new legislation, “The Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Sataar (Amendment) Act, 2026.”

This initiative has been undertaken in accordance with the directives issued by the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. Through these flex boards, the congregation is being apprised that the Act contains several flaws and provisions that have drawn serious objections at the ‘Panthic’ (community-wide) level.

According to the SGPC, the use of the term “Custodian” within the Act implies that ‘Granthi Singhs’ (caretakers) responsible for the ‘Sewa-Sambhal’ (service and upkeep) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, ‘Singhs’ performing ‘Akhand Path’ (continuous recitation), Gurdwara committees, and even devotees sponsoring ‘Akhand Paths’ could be held liable in cases involving ‘Beadbi’ (sacrilege) or violations of ‘Maryada’ (religious code of conduct). Furthermore, they could potentially be subjected to penalties and fines.

An Atmosphere of Fear within the Congregation

The flex boards also highlight that criminalizing violations of ‘Maryada’ could foster an atmosphere of fear within the congregation. Additionally, apprehensions have been raised that this could pave the way for direct police intervention within the premises of gurdwaras.

A Highly Sensitive Issue Linked to the Sentiments of the Sikh Community

SGPC Chief Secretary Sardar Kulwant Singh Mannan stated that this matter is a highly sensitive issue deeply intertwined with the sentiments of the entire Sikh community. He noted that Sikh scholars and intellectuals have raised serious questions regarding this Act, making it imperative to apprise the congregation of these objections.

The Sikh Congregation Must Unite Under the Leadership of Sri Akal Takht Sahib

He emphasized that matters concerning the ‘Beadbi’ of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji are profoundly sensitive to the entire Sikh community. Therefore, any legislation formulated on this subject must be in strict alignment with ‘Panthic’ sentiments, ‘Gurmat’ (Sikh religious) principles and the guidance of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. Finally, the SGPC appealed to the Sangat to remain vigilant regarding this issue and to unite under the leadership of Sri Akal Takht Sahib to safeguard Panthic unity and principles.