Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Member of Parliament Malvinder Singh Kang on Thursday categorically clarified that the Punjab Government’s law against sacrilege is aimed solely at ensuring the strictest punishment for those who deliberately commit acts of sacrilege and has no intention of interfering in Sikh religious affairs, Sikh Rehat Maryada, or the rights of religious institutions.
Addressing a press conference, Kang said the Bhagwant Mann Government brought the legislation in response to the long-standing demand of the Sikh community for a strong legal framework to prevent repeated incidents of sacrilege and ensure that those responsible do not escape punishment.
He said that after the Punjab Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the Bill, the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib suggested certain amendments. The Punjab Government accepted these suggestions with utmost respect and has already submitted a draft incorporating the proposed changes. These amendments will be brought before the Punjab Legislative Assembly in the upcoming session.
Kang said the AAP government deeply respects Sri Akal Takht Sahib and all Sikh religious institutions. “Our objective has never been to interfere in Sikh religious affairs. The sole purpose of this law is to ensure that anyone who intentionally commits sacrilege faces the strictest legal punishment,” he said.
Clarifying concerns regarding the terminology used in the Bill, Kang announced that the government will amend the legislation to explicitly include the revered terms used for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, including “Bir” and “Saroop”, in accordance with Sikh traditions.
He also clarified the definition of “Custodian”, saying it does not refer to ownership but to a sevadar or caretaker entrusted with the service and protection of the holy Saroop. The term includes any individual, institution, dera, or Gurdwara committee responsible for the care of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Kang categorically stated that custodians or sevadars will not be presumed guilty merely because an unfortunate incident has occurred. If an incident takes place due to an unintentional mistake, technical lapse, or without any criminal intent, the penal provisions of the Act will not apply.
He further clarified that no custodian can be arrested immediately after a complaint. Every complaint must first undergo an independent investigation by an SP/DCP-level officer within 30 days, extendable by 15 days if required. During this period, the concerned SGPC authorities will also be informed, and no coercive action will be taken unless the investigation establishes deliberate wrongdoing.