What is the Anti-Sacrilege Bill 2025? Punjab’s Bold Move to Protect Religious Scriptures

What is the Anti-Sacrilege Bill 2025?
The Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scriptures Bill, 2025, is a legislative measure to protect sacred texts from deliberate harm. It comes as a response to past incidents where holy books like the Guru Granth Sahib, Quran, Bible, and Bhagavad Gita were vandalized, leading to social unrest.

Key Provisions of the Bill:
Definition of Offense: Any act of damaging, burning, tearing, or defacing holy scriptures is considered a crime.
Protected Scriptures: Includes Guru Granth Sahib, Quran Sharif, Holy Bible, and Srimad Bhagavad Gita, ensuring equal protection for all faiths.

Strict Penalties:
Minimum 10 years to life imprisonment for convicted offenders.
Fines ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh.
3-5 years jail term for attempted sacrilege.
High-Level Investigations: Only Deputy Superintendent-rank officers can probe such cases to ensure seriousness.

Why Was This Bill Introduced?
Rising cases of scripture desecration in Punjab.
Need to deter offenders and maintain public trust in law enforcement.
Emotional and communal tensions caused by past incidents.
Legislative Process:
The bill has been referred to a Select Committee for further discussions before final approval, ensuring a balanced and inclusive law.


Questions & Answers (For Competitive Exams)
Q: What is the main objective of Punjab’s Anti-Sacrilege Bill 2025?
A: To prevent acts of sacrilege against holy scriptures and maintain religious harmony.
Q: Which scriptures are protected under this bill?
A: Guru Granth Sahib, Quran Sharif, Holy Bible, and Srimad Bhagavad Gita.
Q: What is the minimum punishment for desecrating a holy book under this law?
A: 10 years imprisonment, extendable to life term.
Q: Who can investigate sacrilege cases under this bill?
A: Only Deputy Superintendent-rank police officers or above.
Q: What fine can be imposed for an attempted sacrilege offense?
A: Up to ₹3 lakh.


Why is This Important for Current Affairs & GK?
Relevance for UPSC, SSC, PSC, KAS: Questions on new state laws and religious harmony are common in exams.
Social Impact: Shows how governments address communal tensions through legislation.
Legal Awareness: Helps aspirants understand criminal laws and fundamental rights.


Final Thoughts
Punjab’s Anti-Sacrilege Bill 2025 is a major step toward safeguarding religious sentiments. For exam aspirants, keeping track of such laws is crucial for GK and essay writing. Stay updated with MyEntrance.in for more insights on current affairs and exam preparation!