--*Bhagwant Mann Govt's Zero tolerance on ‘beadbi’: AAP Govt to amend anti-sacrilege law with strictest punishments in special Vidhan Sabha session on April 13*

*Bhagwant Mann Govt to convene special Punjab Assembly session on Baisakhi to amend Jagt Jyoti Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act*

*Sant Samaj in consultation as govt moves historic anti-‘beadbi’ law, no guilty will be spared under strictest legislation: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Strict law will protect people's faith & also include digital offences, property seizure & stringent punishment, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann vows no culprit of ‘beadbi’ will be spared*

AMRITSAR, 21 March 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday announced that the Punjab government will convene a special session of the Vidhan Sabha on April 13 to amend the Jagt Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008 and bring in a stricter law against ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege). The proposed legislation will include stringent punishment, heavy fines, property confiscation and cover offences committed through digital content, with the draft being prepared in consultation with the Sant Samaj and legal experts. Asserting a zero-tolerance stance, the government said no one guilty of ‘beadbi’ will be spared.

During a meeting with the members of Sant Samaj and religious leaders, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The session will be convened on the occasion of Khalsa Sajna Diwas and the act will be formed in consultation with Sant Samaj and legal experts. Opinions from eminent lawyers across the country will also be sought while preparing the draft of this legislation to ensure exemplary punishment to perpetrators of this heinous crime.”

The Chief Minister said that during the session, necessary amendments will be made to the Jagt Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008, enacted by the Punjab Government, to introduce a strong and comprehensive law to prevent 'beadbi' of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and other religious texts.

Inviting members of the Sant Samaj, various sects, Taksals, Nihang Singh groups, Udasi sects, Nirmala sects, Kar Seva groups, Ragis, and Kathavachaks, the Chief Minister urged them to attend the special session and witness the passage of this historic legislation. He stated, “Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan and MLA Dr. Inderbir Singh Nijjar will soon visit Samana to persuade Gurjeet Singh Khalsa to end his protest and invite him to attend the special assembly session as well. The Punjab Government respects the sentiments of Sant Samaj and devotees and is committed to bringing a strict law that will deter any mischievous elements from committing acts of 'beadbi.’”

The Punjab CM added that the law will include stringent punishments, heavy fines, and even confiscation of property of the accused. “The new act will also cover the 'beadbi' carried out through digital content. The Punjab government is working with full sincerity to prevent incidents of 'beadbi' of religious texts.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann assured the Sant Samaj that the government respects the religious sentiments of everyone and no one guilty of 'beadbi' will be spared.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also took to ‘X’ and wrote, “Today, at Sri Amritsar Sahib, a significant meeting was held with the Sant Samaj at the Circuit House, where discussions took place on amending the ‘Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act 2008’ to prevent the desecration of sacred scriptures. In this regard, a special session of the Vidhan Sabha will be convened on April 13, 2026. We regard the sacred Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji as the Shabad Guru, from whom we receive teachings on truth, service, and humanity. If anyone attempts to hurt our faith through desecration, they will never be forgiven. The guilty will be given strict and exemplary punishment, and stringent laws will be enacted to protect the faith and honor of Punjab.”

Earlier, members of the Sant Samaj and various religious groups demanded that pending cases should be expedited to ensure strict punishment for the guilty. They also expressed gratitude to the AAP-led Punjab Government for organizing events commemorating the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. They appreciated the government’s decision to grant holy city status to Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo. The meeting concluded with a collective Ardas (prayer).

===================

*Era of power rotation & political musical chairs is over, now it is people’s turn: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Those who ruled earlier & destroyed Punjab’s youth and law & order now pretend to lecture on governance: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Ask Congress or Akali leaders how much money they spend to gather crowds, AAP gets real public support: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Opposition has no credibility & has joined hands only to attack AAP & Bhagwant Mann, their defeat in 2027 clearly visible: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*AAP Govt fulfilled guarantees in 4 years, will not waste remaining year as Punjab recovers from 70 years of neglect: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Traditional parties that ruined Punjab are now spreading false propaganda to mislead people: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Vote is not just symbol but your future, one wrong choice can lock Punjab for five years: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

DHARAMKOT, 21 March 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday addressed a massive public gathering at Dana Mandi in Dharamkot, Moga, delivering a direct political message that Punjab has decisively moved beyond the era of power rotation and backroom politics, with people now firmly in control of the state’s future. Taking on traditional parties for what he described as decades of misrule, he asserted that those who once weakened Punjab’s youth and law and order are now attempting to mislead people through false narratives, even as their credibility continues to erode and their 2027 defeat becomes increasingly evident.

Positioning the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government as one that delivers on its promises, the Chief Minister highlighted that guarantees made to the people have been fulfilled within four years, with the remaining year to be used to accelerate Punjab’s recovery from decades of neglect. He contrasted manufactured crowds of opposition parties with the organic public support visible at AAP gatherings, underlining that people are no longer willing to be swayed by propaganda and are instead making informed choices about their future.

Earlier in the day, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann laid the foundation stone of a School of Eminence in village Bajeke, where he was warmly welcomed by locals who presented him with portraits of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, while students greeted him with roses. The ₹19.76 crore project aims to transform rural education with modern infrastructure, advanced learning facilities, and free JEE-NEET coaching, marking a strong push to ensure equal opportunities and secure the future of Punjab’s youth.

Subsequently, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of a ₹18 crore Sub-Divisional Hospital in Dharamkot, terming it a major step towards strengthening healthcare access in smaller towns and rural areas, and reaffirming the Punjab Government’s commitment to ensuring quality treatment reaches every household.

Addressing the gathering at Dana Mandi, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann remarked, “Those leaders are now talking about law and order in the state, the hands of whom are drenched with blood of the youth of the state and who were responsible for chaos in the state. These parties have committed sins against the state and its people, and the masses will never forgive them,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, adding that his government is working tirelessly to educate children, generate employment, and eliminate poverty through sustained development, not temporary schemes.

Highlighting the public response to the event, he said it reflected people’s satisfaction with the government’s work. “The presence of people in such large numbers is proof that they are happy with the work of the Aam Aadmi Party and that they support our government. For the first time in history, a government has fulfilled the guarantees it promised within four years and we still have one year left to do even more. We will not waste this one year as we are already late by 70 years, and now we have to make up for that delay.”

Outlining the government’s roadmap, the Chief Minister said, “The AAP government will build more schools, more hospitals, provide more jobs, recruit in the police, close toll plazas, bring water to canals, construct roads, and promote sports. There is still a lot of work which needs to be done and the AAP Government will leave no stone unturned for this noble cause. Previous governments had ruined the state and left Punjab in a bad condition, but today it is moving forward again.”

Taking aim at opposition mobilisation, he said, “These gatherings are not ordinary because other parties can only dream of such functions as people don’t come to listen to them. Ask the Congress or Akali leaders how much money they spend to gather crowds. They even hire people to attend rallies. But here, it is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that people come on their own. This is the real support of masses.”

He further stated that earlier regimes had multiple opportunities to transform Punjab but failed due to lack of intent. “If those previous governments had intentions to work, they would have done it earlier as they had several opportunities. These leaders betrayed Punjab and Punjabis. Some leaders were Chief Ministers multiple times, but nothing changed in the state. These leaders worked for their own vested interests by backstabbing the state and its people.”

Underscoring the importance of intent in governance, he said, “If intentions are pure and honest, even a leader for a few hours can bring change, but instead of changing things previous regimes exploited the people. Punjab and its people live in my heart due to which I am here only to serve the masses with missionary zeal. The entire Punjab is my family and I always love to be amongst them, contrary to my predecessors who loved to live in palatial houses.”

On the opposition, the Chief Minister said, “The opposition has no credibility so the people should not believe them. The opposition has joined hands just to criticise me. They know that it is writing on the wall that they are not going to win in 2027, due to which they are baffled. The era of taking turns in power or playing musical chairs is over as now it is the people’s turn to come forward with honesty and missionary zeal.”

Urging voters to exercise their choice carefully, he said, “Whenever you go to vote, remember one thing that the party symbol to whom you are casting your vote is not merely a symbol but represents your future and that of your children. If you press the wrong button, your future is locked for five years, and if you press the right one, Punjab moves forward.”

Emphasising women’s empowerment, he added, “We have empowered women as we respect mothers and sisters because their blessings make a person successful in any field. A home without a mother loses its soul. The opposition only thinks about their families, their sons, nephews, and relatives, but we think about every citizen of Punjab. The opposition destroyed Punjab with their regressive policies, drugs, corruption, and mismanagement.”

Highlighting governance priorities, he said, “The AAP Government is improving schools, hospitals, and infrastructure so that Punjab progresses permanently. Earlier governments focused on trivial works like building walls of cremation grounds while ignoring development like schools, roads, and water systems. Our government has changed this mindset by bringing the common man and his issues at the centre stage of politics.”

He reiterated that delivery, not promises, defines the government’s approach. “The AAP Government is providing electricity, improving irrigation, building schools, offering healthcare, and creating opportunities. We are not just making promises, we are delivering results. People of Punjab are wise and they can elevate someone to great heights and also bring them down if needed,” stated CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Speaking about governance style, he said, “The AAP Government works day and night and not just during office hours because the problems of people don’t come on a schedule. We are changing the system to suit the people, not the other way around. When I see people benefiting from our work and happiness in their lives, it brings satisfaction to me. This is the real reward, far more precious than money or power.”

On fiscal discipline and welfare, he added, “The AAP government is judiciously utilizing every single penny of the state exchequer for the well-being of the people. More than 90% households in the state are getting free power and even farmers are getting power in the daytime, which is unprecedented. At a time when assets of the country are being given by the Union government to their blue-eyed friends at throwaway prices, the Punjab Government has created history by buying a private thermal plant.”

Detailing healthcare initiatives, he said, “881 Aam Aadmi Clinics have been opened in the state to provide free healthcare to people and quality healthcare facilities are being provided in government hospitals. To provide comprehensive healthcare, the AAP government has launched Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, a first-of-its-kind scheme that provides cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for every resident family in Punjab. Punjab is the first Indian state to offer such comprehensive healthcare coverage, significantly easing the financial burden on people while ensuring quality health services.”

On the anti-drug campaign, he said, “The AAP Government launched the ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign, under which the supply line of drugs has been snapped and drug smugglers have been put behind bars. The curse of drugs is being wiped out at a micro level with active support of the public. The Yudh Nashean Virudh has now become a mass movement.”

Sharing details of development works, he said, “Today the foundation stone of a School of Eminence has been laid in village Bajeke, Dharamkot. An amount of ₹19 crore 76 lakh will be spent on the construction of this school, which will be built over seven acres and three kanals. The two-storey building will include 24 classrooms, three science laboratories, a commerce block, library, computer lab, two additional labs, EDUSAT room, and sanitary blocks.”

He further added, “There will be playgrounds for volleyball, basketball, and handball along with a 200-meter track. Science, Commerce, and Arts streams are being taught and each student is provided with a track suit, blazer, and other uniform items worth ₹4,000. Transport facilities with four buses have also been arranged and free coaching for JEE and NEET will be provided.”

Highlighting academic achievements, he said, “Two students from the school, Aryan Devgan and Gurjashan Singh, have qualified JEE Mains, and students have consistently secured positions in the board merit list. Three more Schools of Eminence are functioning in Moga district including Landhe Ke, Baghapurana, and Nihal Singh Wala.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also announced healthcare upgradation, stating, “The Primary Health Centre in Dharamkot is being upgraded to a Sub-Divisional Hospital with an investment of ₹18 crore, which will provide quality healthcare facilities to thousands of residents in Dharamkot and nearby villages.”

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*Major industrial investments validate Punjab’s improving law & order and governance: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Akali leadership that ruined Punjab by backing gangsters cannot now pretend to fix damage: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Everyone knows who gave tickets to gangsters & appointed them as Halqa in-charges: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*AAP Govt’s Zero Tolerance Policy crushes drug mafia, over 95,000 smugglers arrested since 2022: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Yudh Nashean Virudh drives Punjab’s mission-mode war on drugs, dismantling supply chains and criminal networks: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*₹772 crore drug empire seized, 1,556 smugglers stripped of illegal assets in Punjab crackdown: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*AGTF smashes 1,105 gangs, arrests 2,858 criminals, Punjab tightens grip on organized crime: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Centre refused funds, Punjab installs anti-drone system with own resources to block cross-border drugs and weapons: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Record police recruitment, modernisation, and 48% drop in highway fatalities reflect strong law & order in Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Sadak Surakhya Force cuts highway fatalities by 48%, emerges as India’s first dedicated road safety force: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

CHANDIGARH, 21 March 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday presented a focused report card on law and order under the AAP Government as part of the ongoing series ‘Shandaar Chaar Saal Bhagwant Mann De Naal’, aimed at placing a clear, sector-wise account of four years of governance before the people. He asserted that Punjab’s improving law and order is now visible on the ground, driven by a zero tolerance policy against drugs and a sustained crackdown on organized crime, alongside police reforms and rising investor confidence.

The Chief Minister said the Punjab Government’s campaign ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ has led to decisive action, with over 95,000 smugglers arrested, ₹772 crore worth of illegal assets seized, and more than 1,100 gangs dismantled, while measures like the anti-drone system have checked cross-border smuggling. He added that record police recruitment, modernisation, and initiatives like the Sadak Surakhya Force underline the strengthening of law enforcement in Punjab. Taking on the Akali leadership, he said those who patronised gangsters and allowed criminal networks to flourish are now attempting to rewrite history, but cannot escape accountability.

Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab Government has adopted a zero tolerance policy against drugs, and no leniency has been or will be shown against violators of the law. Exemplary punishment will be ensured,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, adding, “From March 2022 till now, 95,881 drug smugglers and suppliers have been arrested and 71,228 FIRs have been registered under the NDPS Act.”

Detailing the crackdown, the Chief Minister stated, “6,109 major/commercial consignments of drugs have been seized, along with the arrest of 10,085 major traffickers. Special focus has been placed on drug hotspots, leading to recovery of 5,625 kg heroin, 3,461 kg opium, 1,628 quintals poppy husk, and 4.96 crore injections, tablets, capsules, and syrups.” He further added, “₹54.47 crore drug money has been recovered and 3,440 proclaimed offenders in NDPS cases have been arrested. Properties worth ₹772 crore have been seized from 1,556 smugglers.”

Highlighting action against organized crime, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “After the formation of the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), 2,858 gangsters and criminals have been arrested, 35 neutralized, and 1,105 gangs busted. 2,267 weapons and 655 vehicles used in crimes have been recovered.” He added, “Since April 6, 2022, AGTF has solved 38 sensational cases, including major murder cases, extortion rackets, bank robberies, gang arrests, and terror-linked conspiracies across Punjab and nearby regions up to March 2026.”

Emphasising border security, he noted, “Punjab has around 560 kilometre border with Pakistan, and to check the supply of drugs and weapons, the state government has installed an anti-drone system. Punjab is the first state to have this system.” He added, “We had asked the Centre for funds, but no assistance was given. The state government used its own resources, and the system is producing results. So far, 806 drones have been recovered, 1,472 drone movements detected, and 341 illegal weapons recovered via drones.”

On police reforms, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Unlike earlier governments that carried out recruitment in the last or poll year, our government has ensured regular recruitment. In the last four years, 12,197 recruitments have been made, including 1,062 Sub-Inspectors, 450 Head Constables, and 10,285 Constables.” He added, “Recruitment for 1,746 constables (2025) is under process, and advertisement has been issued for 3,298 constables (2026), with applications invited from March 10, 2026.”

He further stated, “To modernise the Police force, 2,904 vehicles have been purchased at a cost of ₹327.69 crore, including 2,258 four-wheelers and 646 two-wheelers. The Sadak Surakhya Force, launched in January 2024, is India’s first dedicated force of its kind, covering more than 5,500 km of highways and reducing fatalities by 48%.” He added, “From February 2024 to January 2026, it has helped 47,386 victims in 43,983 accidents, provided on-the-spot aid to 19,973 people, and shifted 27,413 injured to hospitals.”

Highlighting technological upgrades, he said, “Safe City projects have been implemented in SAS Nagar and Jalandhar and will soon be launched in Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Patiala.” He added, “Punjab Police is a national police force fighting to safeguard the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the country.”

On action against fugitives, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government is leaving no stone unturned to extradite gangsters operating from abroad. Whenever inputs are received, they are flagged for issuing Red Corner Notices.”

Reinforcing confidence in Punjab’s law and order, he stated, “Punjab is one of the safest and most peaceful states in the country. Investment is the best parameter to judge law and order, and the fact that a major steel plant has started operations with an investment of ₹3,200 crore reflects this reality.” He added, “Several leading global companies are making a beeline to invest in Punjab, and many have already started operations. The state is hosting major events and will host the Asia Cup Hockey in October.”

Taking aim at previous regimes, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those who patronised and promoted drug culture in Punjab are now claiming to eliminate it. Everyone knows who gave tickets to gangsters and appointed them as Halqa in-charges. These leaders are responsible for the rise of gangster culture and are still extending legal and other support to such elements.”

Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.

=========================

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann announces major boost for Malerkotla, medical college to be set up, 100 MBBS doctors to be trained every year*

*Tender already issued to build govt medical college on 38.5 acres at cost of ₹563 crore: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Nursing college & 200-bed hospital will also be constructed along with medical college in Malerkotla: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*150-bed hospital will be built on 8.5 acres to provide nearby healthcare facilities to people of Khanna–Ludhiana region: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Get yourself enrolled under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna to avail cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann attends Eid Milan in Malerkotla*

MALERKOTLA, 21 March 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday celebrated Eid with people in Malerkotla, joined prayers at the Eidgah and rolled out a major healthcare and welfare push, announcing a ₹563 crore medical college along with a network of hospitals aimed at expanding access to quality treatment in the region. During the celebrations, he also urged families to enrol under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna to avail cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh, positioning the pro-people scheme as part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen public healthcare and deliver on-ground guarantees.

Congratulating the people, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “It is a festival of seeking each other’s welfare, and I find immense peace in this holy Eidgah of Malerkotla. This is a festival that reflects brotherhood, where we sit together and celebrate in harmony. I extend my heartfelt greetings to the organising committee and all those who have come from nearby villages to celebrate Eid.”

He continued, “Malerkotla is a historic land from where a voice was raised in support of the younger Sahibzadas of the tenth Guru, a voice that still echoes across the world and the universe.” On this joyous occasion of Eid, he announced a medical college is being established here. “Around 25 acres of defence land has been transferred to the government, and with a cost of approximately ₹563 crore, this medical college with 100 MBBS seats will soon be ready. Alongside this, a 150-bed ESI hospital is also being constructed on about 8.5 acres, as there is no such hospital between Khanna and Ludhiana,” he added.

The Chief Minister said, “Wherever a medical college is built, it is mandatory to have a nursing college and a 200-bed hospital, so these will also be developed alongside it. A girls’ school that was earlier running in two shifts has now been expanded into a five-storey building, and furniture is being installed. This school is likely to be inaugurated within the next 15–20 days, and our daughters will receive education there.”

He emphasised that health facilities are being strengthened here, and medical colleges and hospitals are being constructed so that our children can become doctors and achieve great heights. Many leaders have ruled, but only a few live in people’s hearts. People give space in their hearts only to those who govern for them, not over them. In 2022, the people of Punjab gave us an opportunity to serve, and the government has fulfilled all promises and guarantees so far.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added, “I urge people to get themselves enrolled for the ₹10 lakh cashless treatment card under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna. This is an ambitious scheme aimed at providing cashless healthcare facilities, with both government and private hospitals empanelled. Treatment up to ₹10 lakh will be completely free for all families residing in the state. I pray that such a situation of illness never arises and everyone remains healthy, but if it does, the state government stands firmly with people for their treatment. The love given by the people of Malerkotla is so immense that it cannot be repaid even in several lifetimes. The value of this love can only be understood by the one who receives it.”

The Chief Minister affirmed, “The land of Punjab is very fertile, and whatever seed is sown here grows well. However, the seed of hatred will never germinate on this sacred land of great Gurus, saints, seers and prophets.”

He further stated, “This blessed month marks the time when, by divine command, the Holy Quran was bestowed upon humanity. We all come together to celebrate festivals and religious occasions of every faith with devotion and enthusiasm.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted, “Our country is home to diverse languages, dialects, and cultures, making it a unique example of unity in diversity. Our great spiritual leaders have given the message of peace, harmony, unity, brotherhood, and human values to the entire world.”

He said, “From this sacred soil, we pray every day for the welfare of all humanity and seek the well-being of everyone. I can proudly say that Punjab is a state where the roots of peace, love, and communal harmony are deeply embedded and can never be weakened.”

On this sacred day, the Chief Minister assured the people they will never allow any forces attempting to weaken communal harmony in the state to succeed at any cost. He extended his heartfelt greetings to the entire Muslim community on behalf of the Punjab Government and the people of Punjab.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed hope that the tradition of communal harmony, peace, and togetherness that has existed in Punjab for centuries will continue, adding that the state government will always remain committed to preserving it in the future.

=======================

*Bhagwant Mann Govt's Zero tolerance on ‘beadbi’: AAP Govt to amend anti-sacrilege law with strictest punishments in special Vidhan Sabha session on April 13*

*Bhagwant Mann Govt to convene special Punjab Assembly session on Baisakhi to amend Jagt Jyoti Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act*

*Sant Samaj in consultation as govt moves historic anti-‘beadbi’ law, no guilty will be spared under strictest legislation: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Strict law will protect people's faith & also include digital offences, property seizure & stringent punishment, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann vows no culprit of ‘beadbi’ will be spared*

AMRITSAR, 21 March 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday announced that the Punjab government will convene a special session of the Vidhan Sabha on April 13 to amend the Jagt Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008 and bring in a stricter law against ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege). The proposed legislation will include stringent punishment, heavy fines, property confiscation and cover offences committed through digital content, with the draft being prepared in consultation with the Sant Samaj and legal experts. Asserting a zero-tolerance stance, the government said no one guilty of ‘beadbi’ will be spared.

During a meeting with the members of Sant Samaj and religious leaders, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The session will be convened on the occasion of Khalsa Sajna Diwas and the act will be formed in consultation with Sant Samaj and legal experts. Opinions from eminent lawyers across the country will also be sought while preparing the draft of this legislation to ensure exemplary punishment to perpetrators of this heinous crime.”

The Chief Minister said that during the session, necessary amendments will be made to the Jagt Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act, 2008, enacted by the Punjab Government, to introduce a strong and comprehensive law to prevent 'beadbi' of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and other religious texts.

Inviting members of the Sant Samaj, various sects, Taksals, Nihang Singh groups, Udasi sects, Nirmala sects, Kar Seva groups, Ragis, and Kathavachaks, the Chief Minister urged them to attend the special session and witness the passage of this historic legislation. He stated, “Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan and MLA Dr. Inderbir Singh Nijjar will soon visit Samana to persuade Gurjeet Singh Khalsa to end his protest and invite him to attend the special assembly session as well. The Punjab Government respects the sentiments of Sant Samaj and devotees and is committed to bringing a strict law that will deter any mischievous elements from committing acts of 'beadbi.’”

The Punjab CM added that the law will include stringent punishments, heavy fines, and even confiscation of property of the accused. “The new act will also cover the 'beadbi' carried out through digital content. The Punjab government is working with full sincerity to prevent incidents of 'beadbi' of religious texts.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann assured the Sant Samaj that the government respects the religious sentiments of everyone and no one guilty of 'beadbi' will be spared.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also took to ‘X’ and wrote, “Today, at Sri Amritsar Sahib, a significant meeting was held with the Sant Samaj at the Circuit House, where discussions took place on amending the ‘Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Act 2008’ to prevent the desecration of sacred scriptures. In this regard, a special session of the Vidhan Sabha will be convened on April 13, 2026. We regard the sacred Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji as the Shabad Guru, from whom we receive teachings on truth, service, and humanity. If anyone attempts to hurt our faith through desecration, they will never be forgiven. The guilty will be given strict and exemplary punishment, and stringent laws will be enacted to protect the faith and honor of Punjab.”

Earlier, members of the Sant Samaj and various religious groups demanded that pending cases should be expedited to ensure strict punishment for the guilty. They also expressed gratitude to the AAP-led Punjab Government for organizing events commemorating the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. They appreciated the government’s decision to grant holy city status to Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo. The meeting concluded with a collective Ardas (prayer).


======================

*Punjab Government releases ₹219 crore to over 1.91 lakh students under Post Matric Scholarship: Dr. Baljit Kaur*

*Target set to cover 2.70 lakh students in the current financial year*

*Continuous efforts to bring marginalized sections into the mainstream*

Chandigarh, March 21:Punjab Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur on Saturday said that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, remains fully committed to uplifting marginalized sections of society and integrating them into the social mainstream.

The Minister further informed that, moving forward in this direction, a sum of ₹219 crore has already been released during the current financial year under the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme for 1,91,429 Scheduled Caste students. She said that this reflects the firm commitment of the Mann Government towards the welfare and empowerment of Scheduled Castes and other backward classes.

Highlighting the human aspect of the scheme, Dr. Baljit Kaur said, “The Post Matric Scholarship is not just financial assistance, but a ray of hope for thousands of families. For many households, this scheme is enabling children to pursue higher education and build a brighter future. Our government is firmly committed to ensuring that no deserving student is deprived of education due to financial constraints.”

Sharing further details, the Minister said that the Punjab Government had set a target to cover 2.70 lakh students under the scheme during the current financial year, while 2,72,093 applications have already been received. She added that the higher number of applications than the target clearly reflects growing awareness and trust among the public towards the scheme.

The Cabinet Minister further stated that timely disbursement of scholarship funds is being ensured, resulting in a steady increase in the number of beneficiaries compared to previous years.

“This initiative is proving to be a significant step towards empowering the youth of Punjab through education,” she added.