Chandigarh: Partap Singh Bajwa on Tuesday reacted to the amendments made in the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, stating that while the law deserves support, the government must prove its intent through action on the ground.
At the outset, Bajwa said that any step ensuring strict punishment for sacrilege against Guru Granth Sahib is welcome. He emphasized that the issue is not political but deeply connected with faith, emotions, and justice.
He reiterated that the Congress party supports the amendment bill in principle and does not wish to engage in political debate over such a sensitive religious matter.
Questions Over Government’s Intent
However, Bajwa raised serious concerns about the gap between the government’s claims and its performance. He alleged that while strong statements are being made, the ground reality tells a different story.
Challenging Bhagwant Mann, Bajwa urged him to respond with seriousness and responsibility in the Assembly instead of making mere statements.
Delay in High-Profile Cases
He questioned why investigations into key incidents such as the Bargari sacrilege case, Behbal Kalan firing, and Kotkapura incident are still incomplete, despite their significant impact on the state.
Bajwa pointed out that promises of delivering justice within 48 hours have now stretched to 48 months, yet no accountability has been fixed and no clear timeline has been provided.
Concerns Over Transparency and Process
He also criticized the government’s priorities, stating that while crores are being spent on publicity, there has been no transparent update on sacrilege-related cases.
Raising questions over the decision-making process, Bajwa asked why such sensitive matters were sent outside the state and why Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, once projected as a face of justice, is not being allowed to speak in the Assembly.
Uncertainty Over Legal Approval
Bajwa further noted that this is the fifth attempt at such legislation, yet there is still uncertainty over whether it will receive Presidential assent. He questioned why the government failed to consult constitutional experts to avoid another possible setback.
