Singh Sahib Jathedar Baba Balbir Singh Akali (96 Crore), the 14th chief of the Shiromani Panth Akali Budha Dal, has urged governments to immediately enact strict laws to prevent incidents of desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, expressing deep concern over rising cases.
Speaking in Amritsar, Baba Balbir Singh stated that repeated incidents of sacrilege are hurting the dignity and sentiments of the Sikh community. He alleged that governments have failed to fulfill their responsibilities and have not effectively represented Sikh religious sentiments.
He said several painful incidents involving tampering with Guru Granth Sahib saroops, tearing of holy pages (angs), burning, and acts of desecration have taken place even inside gurdwaras. According to him, suspects caught at incident sites are often labeled mentally unstable, which weakens legal action and prevents strict punishment.
Baba Balbir Singh further claimed that existing legal provisions are insufficient to deter offenders, resulting in an increase in such incidents. He demanded amendments to current laws and the introduction of a new, stringent legal framework ensuring strict punishment for those involved in sacrilege cases.
He emphasized that framing stronger laws reflects the sentiments of Sikh devotees and urged governments not to ignore community concerns but to act immediately.