Punjab government and Akal Takht at odds over draft Guru Granth Sahib insult bill

Punjab officials are negotiating the Di Jagt Jot Shri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Amendment Bill-2026, a draft law that would introduce stricter penalties for acts deemed disrespectful to the Sikh holy book. The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee's highest religious authority, the Akal Takht, which argues that the bill infringes on religious freedoms and could be misused.

Sources close to the talks say the government aims to pass the amendment before the upcoming state elections, hoping to project a firm stance on protecting religious sentiments. However, the Akal Takht has withheld its endorsement, citing concerns over the bill's vague definitions and the potential for arbitrary enforcement.

Both sides have indicated a willingness to continue dialogue, but no timeline has been set for reaching a final agreement. The impasse underscores the delicate balance Punjab must maintain between law‑making and respecting the autonomy of Sikh religious institutions.