The legislation also aims to prevent attempts to disturb peace and religious harmony in Punjab through such incidents.

In a development being seen as a defining moment in Punjab’s legislative and religious history, the anti-beadbi law passed by the Punjab Vidhan Sabha has officially come into force after receiving the Governor’s assent. The move is being viewed as one of the strongest legal actions ever taken in the state to safeguard the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and uphold communal harmony.

The legislation, cleared during the special Assembly session held on Vaisakhi, has now become the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Satkar Act, 2026, giving legal backing to stringent punishment provisions against acts of sacrilege. With the Governor signing the bill, the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government has delivered on a long-standing public demand that had remained unresolved for years despite repeated political promises by previous regimes.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann described the moment as deeply emotional and historic, expressing gratitude to Waheguru and the Sangat after the law formally came into effect. Political observers noted that the development has strengthened the Punjab government’s image as an administration attempting to convert sensitive public concerns into concrete legal action rather than symbolic politics.

The law is expected to introduce some of the toughest penalties in the country for acts linked to beadbi, with the government earlier making it clear that offences related to sacrilege would face strict and non-bailable legal consequences. The legislation also aims to prevent attempts to disturb peace and religious harmony in Punjab through such incidents.

Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains termed the enactment a major milestone not only for Sikhs but also for people from all faiths who respect Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. He stated that the law reflects the sentiments and faith of millions and represents a historic correction of a long-pending issue.

Punjab Cabinet Minister Baljeet Kaur said the law would serve as a strong deterrent against elements attempting to create division through sacrilegious acts. She remarked that successive governments had spoken about protecting Panthic values, but the current administration succeeded in turning that commitment into enforceable law.

MLA Dr. Inderbir Singh Nijjar also called it a historic day for Punjab, noting that the bill had received unanimous support in the Assembly before getting the Governor’s approval. According to him, the strict legal framework is likely to discourage future incidents by creating fear of serious punishment among offenders.

AAP MP Malvinder Singh Kang described the law as the fulfilment of a long-pending demand raised by Sikhs across the world. He said the legislation translates public sentiment into a concrete legal structure and sends a strong message that acts of sacrilege will not be tolerated in Punjab.

Party leaders across the state echoed similar sentiments, stating that the implementation of the law demonstrates the Punjab government’s attempt to prioritise issues connected with faith, social peace and justice. Many within political and religious circles are viewing the enactment as a major milestone under the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government, especially because earlier attempts over the years had failed to cross the final legal hurdle.

The law coming into force is also being seen as part of the broader governance approach adopted by the Punjab administration, which has repeatedly projected itself as a government focused on fulfilling commitments related to public welfare, religious respect and accountability.