Phagwara: Rajya Sabha Member Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal has strongly raised concerns over repeated incidents of sacrilege involving religious scriptures across India, demanding the enactment of a stringent national law to prevent such acts. His Special Mention on the issue was formally accepted in the Rajya Sabha.
Speaking in the Upper House, Sant Seechewal highlighted several past incidents of sacrilege, ranging from the Nakodar case of 1986 to the Bargari sacrilege incidents, stressing that repeated desecration of sacred texts continues to hurt religious sentiments and disrupt social harmony, particularly in Punjab.
He stated that holy scriptures such as the Guru Granth Sahib, Bhagavad Gita, Quran, and other sacred texts are deeply revered by millions and any act of disrespect creates emotional distress across communities while threatening law and order.
Call for Strong National Legislation
The Rajya Sabha MP emphasized that Punjab, being a border state, requires special vigilance to prevent anti-social elements from exploiting religious tensions. He urged the Central Government to introduce a strict and effective nationwide law specifically aimed at preventing sacrilege of religious texts.
Sant Seechewal also demanded the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe all past sacrilege cases and ensure justice for victims and affected families.
Reference to Historical Incidents
Recalling the Nakodar sacrilege incident of February 2, 1986, he informed the House that five saroops of Guru Granth Sahib were allegedly burnt. During subsequent protests, police firing reportedly resulted in the deaths of four Sikh youths.
He also referred to the Bargari incidents, where two Sikh protesters lost their lives during police action, noting that justice in these cases is still awaited.
Addressing the media later, Sant Seechewal questioned procedural gaps in earlier investigations, including missing FIR records and the absence of an Action Taken Report despite inquiry findings being presented in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha.
Demand for Justice and Peace
He stressed that religious scriptures are not merely books but spiritual guides that shape moral values and social harmony. Calling for urgent action, he said stricter legal provisions are essential to prevent future incidents and maintain communal peace.
The MP also mentioned ongoing protests in Samana, where Sikh devotees continue to demand justice and stronger legal safeguards against sacrilege.
