Chandigarh: Heated scenes were witnessed in the Punjab Legislative Assembly in Chandigarh during the discussion on sacrilege cases, as Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema strongly defended the “Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026,” introduced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
Strong Support for the Bill
Beginning his address, Cheema thanked the Chief Minister and described the amendment as not just a legal reform but a reflection of the long-standing sentiments of the people of Punjab. He termed it a sincere effort by the government to ensure that no leniency is shown in sensitive cases like sacrilege.
He emphasized that the amended bill introduces strict provisions, including:
- Life imprisonment for the accused
- Fine up to ₹25 lakh
- Non-bailable offense status
Attack on Opposition Parties
As the debate intensified, Cheema launched a sharp attack on opposition parties, accusing them of misleading the public. He alleged that parties like the Shiromani Akali Dal, BJP, and Congress failed to show seriousness in sacrilege cases in the past, leading to delays in justice.
Reference to Historical Incidents
The Finance Minister referred to the Nakodar incident 1986, stating that on February 4, 1986, police opened fire on peacefully protesting youth at a gurdwara, resulting in the martyrdom of four individuals. He pointed out that the second part of the inquiry commission’s report is yet to be made public.
He further alleged that previous governments neither conducted thorough investigations nor ensured punishment for the accused, adding that some individuals were later given prominent positions, raising serious questions about the system.
Concerns Over 2015 Sacrilege Cases
Referring to the 2015 sacrilege incidents and the Behbal Kalan firing case, Cheema claimed that there were allegations of tampering with evidence during that time.
He criticized political leaders, stating that admitting mistakes and later retracting statements amounts to betraying public trust.
