Why an anti-sacrilege law in India's Punjab has sparked controversy
Summary
The government of Punjab, a state in India where Sikhs form the majority, passed a new law in April to impose tougher punishments for crimes that disrespect the Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib. The law has caused controversy because the Akal Takht, the highest Sikh religious authority, says it interferes with religious matters and was passed without their consultation.Key Facts
- Punjab’s new law defines sacrilege against the Guru Granth Sahib, including burning, tearing, theft, or insulting the scripture.
- Offenses under the law are serious, with prison sentences from seven to 20 years and fines up to one million rupees (about $21,000).
- Police can arrest suspects without a warrant, and bail is more difficult to get.
- The law also sets rules on how the Guru Granth Sahib should be handled and managed, which the Akal Takht opposes.
- The Akal Takht argues the law affects religious decisions that should be made only by Sikh authorities.
- Punjab has tried twice before to pass similar laws with harsher punishments for sacrilege but was blocked for constitutional reasons.
- The issue of sacrilege is highly sensitive in Punjab, with past incidents leading to protests and political changes.
- Punjab’s current Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann supports the law and refuses to withdraw it.
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