The Akal Takht on Monday directed the AAP-led Punjab government to amend the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkaar (Amendment) Act, 2026 within one month. “The law would be revised in line with Sikh religious sentiments” the Takht said.
The directive came after Sikh ministers and legislators from the Punjab government appeared before the Akal Takht and assured its leadership that the necessary changes would be made within the given time period. However, the representatives accepted the Akal Takht’s call and agreed to revise the legislation in accordance with Sikh religious sentiments.
The dispute centres on the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkaar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which was passed by the Punjab Assembly on April 13 and received the Governor’s assent shortly afterwards.
The amended law introduces life imprisonment and a fine up to Rs 20 lakh for those found guilty of conspiring to commit sacrilege of the Guru Granth Sahib with the intent to disturb communal harmony.
For other offences under the Act, the punishment includes imprisonment of up to five years along with a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh.
The legislation also mandates the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to maintain a central register of every Saroop (physical copy) of the Guru Granth Sahib. The register must include details such as printing, storage, distribution, the custodian’s identity and a unique identification number.
Custodians have also been made responsible for ensuring the safe custody of the holy scripture and immediately reporting any incident involving damage, disappearance or suspected sacrilege.
The controversy emerged after the Akal Takht objected to the manner in which the legislation was enacted.
It alleged that the Punjab government had failed to consult Sikh religious institutions before passing a law concerning matters of the Sikh faith.
The Akal Takht subsequently summoned the Punjab Cabinet and all Sikh MLAs, irrespective of political affiliation, to appear on June 29 and explain why the legislation had been enacted without consulting either the Akal Takht or the SGPC.
Following Monday’s meeting, Sikh ministers and legislators agreed to amend the law within one month in line with the directions issued by the Akal Takht.