NationalMonday, 20 April 2026·The Hindu
Punjab Governor assents to anti-sacrilege Bill with life imprisonment and ₹25 lakh fine
Punjab’s 2026 amendment bill on sacrilege prescribes life imprisonment and a fine up to ₹25 lakh for beadbi against Guru Granth Sahib.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On 19 April 2026, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria assented to the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which strengthens punishment for sacrilege or beadbi.
Key specifics
- Bill title: Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
- Maximum punishment: life imprisonment.
- Maximum fine: up to ₹25 lakh.
- Constitutional provision: Article 200 gives the Governor power to assent, withhold assent or reserve a Bill.
- Law applies within the territorial boundaries of Punjab.
Exam lens
Polity and governance MCQ, Governor’s assent under Article 200, state legislation, punishment provisions; TNPSC may ask the Bill name, penalty and constitutional article.