The Punjab Vidhan Sabha is set to discuss the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which proposes significant amendments to existing laws concerning sacrilege against the Guru Granth Sahib, a central religious scripture in Sikhism. The bill suggests imposing stricter punishments, including a minimum of 10 years and up to life imprisonment for acts of beadbi (sacrilege). Additionally, it introduces fines ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹25 lakh (approximately $6,000 to $30,000 USD) to discourage such offenses. This legislative move, convened by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, is seen as a strategy to address public concerns over sacrilege incidents ahead of the state assembly elections scheduled for early next year. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann emphasized the need for stronger legal measures to protect the sanctity of the Guru Granth Sahib and to promote communal harmony. Despite the proposed changes, opposition parties have criticized the government for failing to effectively address past sacrilege cases, with only 44 convictions out of 597 reported incidents in the last decade. The amendment bill also includes provisions for punishing those who orchestrate sacrilege, particularly using vulnerable individuals in such acts.