Chandigarh, May 18
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday said that Punjab has set an example for the rest of India by introducing what he described as the country’s strictest law against sacrilege, or beadbi, of religious scriptures.
Speaking after offering prayers at Takht Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib, one of Sikhism’s holiest shrines and the birthplace of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Mann said the law was aimed at protecting the sanctity and dignity of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib.
The chief minister said acts of beadbi were “unforgivable” because they hurt the faith and sentiments of millions of people. He urged other state governments to consider introducing similarly strict legislation and said Punjab was willing to support them in doing so.
Mann said those found guilty of sacrilege involving the Sri Guru Granth Sahib in Punjab could face life imprisonment under the law. He added that the state government would not tolerate actions that hurt religious sentiments.
During his visit, the chief minister offered prayers for the prosperity and well-being of Punjab and the Sikh community worldwide. He said the teachings of the Sikh Gurus continued to inspire people towards peace, truth and communal harmony.
Mann also said his visit to Patna Sahib had given him “new vigour and enthusiasm” to continue serving the people of Punjab. Senior officials, including Punjab Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, accompanied the chief minister during the visit.
