New Delhi, April 15 -- In a significant legislative move, the Punjab Assembly on Monday unanimously passed the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing life imprisonment for acts of sacrilege (beadbi) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann described the law as a "historic correction" aimed at closing longstanding loopholes in previous legislation and ensuring strict punishment for offences related to religious desecration.

The amended law makes such offences non-bailable and non-compoundable, mandates swift investigation, and prescribes penalties ranging from five years to life imprisonment along with fines of up to Rs.20 lakh. It also brings those aiding or abetting such acts und...