In a strong political statement from New Delhi and Chandigarh, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann launched a sharp attack on the Shiromani Akali Dal, saying the party has already been rejected by the people and now stands “exposed even in the court of God.”
He criticized SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal for allegedly making contradictory statements, claiming that his apology at the Akal Takht Sahib was followed by a reversal of his earlier position. Mann said such actions are an attempt to weaken the authority and sanctity of the Akal Takht.
Reaffirming the importance of religious respect, the Chief Minister stated that the Akal Takht Sahib holds the highest position in Sikh religious authority and that every Sikh bows before its decisions. He added that any wrongdoing should be accepted and addressed according to established religious traditions instead of challenging its authority.
On the issue of sacrilege cases, Bhagwant Mann announced that the Punjab government will introduce stricter legal provisions by amending the Sacrilege Prevention Act 2008 Punjab during a special assembly session to be held on the occasion of Baisakhi.
He further stated that anyone attempting sacrilege against the holy scriptures could face a minimum punishment of 10 years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment under the proposed amendments.
The Chief Minister also confirmed that consultations are ongoing with religious bodies and legal experts to finalize the proposed changes before presenting them in the assembly.
