Punjab's Anti-Sacrilege Bill: Public Invited to Voice Opinions

The select committee of the Punjab Assembly is seeking public input on the proposed Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scriptures Bill, 2025. The committee has released a WhatsApp number and email addresses to gather suggestions until August 31 from the public, religious institutions, NGOs, and other stakeholders.

Chaired by AAP MLA Inderbir Singh Nijjar, the 15-member committee, constituted on July 19, is tasked with reviewing public feedback on the bill which aims to impose strict punishments, including life imprisonment, for acts of sacrilege against religious texts. The committee's first meeting was held on July 24.

The bill, introduced in the Punjab Assembly on July 14, details severe penalties for those found guilty of sacrilege, including fines and imprisonment up to life. The public can express their views via email, WhatsApp, through local MLAs, or by post, with a final report expected in six months.

(With inputs from agencies.)