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New anti-sacrilege law in Punjab leaves devotees with scriptures at home in a bind
Punjab enacted a stringent anti-sacrilege law targeting acts against the Guru Granth Sahib. Following the act, there was a mass surrender of scriptures in Sangrur, and devotees expressed fear about handling scriptures at home, prompting shifts toward gurdwara-based worship and other safety measures. The report also notes potential impacts on religious research and ritual practices.
Why It Matters
The amendment expands legal penalties for sacrilege against the Guru Granth Sahib, potentially altering daily devotional practices, custodial handling of scriptures, and academic study of Sikh texts in Punjab.
Timeline
6 Events
Academic impact noted by Sikh studies scholar
May 9, 2026
Paramveer Singh, professor at the department of encyclopaedia of Sikhism at Punjabi University, Patiala, suggested the law could affect religious research by students, who might be wary of marking or highlighting sentences in scriptures due to penalties.
Worn-out saroops directed for final rites
May 9, 2026
Baljit Singh, manager of Gurudwara Talhan Sahib in Jalandhar, said people had been asked to take worn-out saroops to Goindwal Sahib in Tarn Taran for final rites at Gurdwara Angeetha Sahib.
Two families return Pothis in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar
May 9, 2026
In Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, two families returned Pothis, citing their inability to handle them with due care under the new law.
Devotees' fear and ritual concerns highlighted in report
May 9, 2026
The report notes that devotees performing nitnem at home fear unintentional lapses or mishandling of scriptures could lead to legal action, prompting many to recite daily prayers at a gurdwara; leaders emphasize vulnerability of even those devoted to service.
Sangrur district: mass surrender of scriptures to gurdwara managements
May 8, 2026
Representatives from seven gurdwaras in Sunam gathered at Gurdwara Nankiana Sahib to collectively deposit 452 Gutka Sahibs and Pothis surrendered by residents, amid fear and altered religious practice.
Punjab passes Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026
April 20, 2026
The Punjab state government enacted the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, introducing stringent punishments for acts of sacrilege against the Guru Granth Sahib, including life imprisonment and fines up to ₹25 lakh.