Punjab Newsline | Amritsar
The proceedings held on Monday at Sri Akal Takht Sahib regarding the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026 concluded with a significant directive to the Punjab Government.
The Akal Takht has granted a one-month period to Sikh ministers, MLAs of the Punjab Government, and the Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha to review the legislation and carry out necessary amendments in accordance with the suggestions and sentiments expressed by the highest Sikh temporal seat.
The directive comes after detailed deliberations on the controversial law, which has sparked widespread debate within the Sikh community over its provisions related to sacrilege and religious sensitivities.
During the hearing, representatives were asked to ensure that the proposed changes align with the guidance issued by the Akal Takht Sahib, emphasizing respect for Sikh religious traditions and sentiments.
The matter is expected to remain under close review as the Punjab Government considers modifications within the stipulated time frame.
During the hearing, Dr. Inderbir Singh Nijjar, Chairman of the Punjab Assembly's Select Committee, requested that Sri Akal Takht Sahib clearly specify which provisions should be included in the legislation.
Responding to the request, Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj stated that while enacting laws is the government's constitutional authority, any legislation related to Sikh religious matters should be framed only after consultation with the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
Before the hearing commenced, an Ardas was performed in the presence of Guru Sahib at the Sri Akal Takht Secretariat. Following the prayer, the five Sikh high priests began deliberations on the amendments to the sacrilege law while observing all prescribed Sikh religious traditions and protocols.
The Ardas was attended by Acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj; Harmandir Sahib Granthis Giani Baljit Singh and Giani Keval Singh; Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib Giani Tek Singh; and Giani Mangal Singh, one of the Panj Pyare of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
