Patiala-In a significant development for Punjab and the global Sikh community, retired IPS officer and senior Congress leader Gurinder Singh Dhillon has expressed deep satisfaction over the enactment of The Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The legislation, officially known as Bill No. 5-PLA-2026, has now received assent from Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, marking a crucial milestone in strengthening the legal framework around the sanctity of Sikhism’s holiest scripture, Guru Granth Sahib.
Describing the development as “unmatched in the history of Punjab,” Dhillon emphasized that the amendment corrects long-standing anomalies in the principal Act. A key change introduced under Section 2 replaces the outdated terminology “Bir and Birs” with “Saroop and Saroops,” aligning the legal language with contemporary religious understanding and practice. According to Dhillon, the earlier terminology had historical relevance only until 1708 AD, whereas the updated terms more accurately reflect the eternal and living status attributed to the Guru Granth Sahib in Sikh faith.
The amendment goes beyond linguistic correction and introduces several other provisions aimed at reinforcing respect and safeguarding against acts of sacrilege. Dhillon, drawing on his administrative and policing experience, asserted that once implemented effectively, the law will serve as a strong deterrent against intentional acts of desecration and disrespect toward the Guru Granth Sahib, revered as the eternal 11th Guru of the Sikhs.
He further noted that the passage and assent of the Bill reflect a collective effort involving lawmakers, religious scholars, and community stakeholders. Dhillon congratulated all those who contributed to the process, calling the Act a landmark achievement that not only strengthens legal protections but also upholds the sentiments and faith of millions of Sikhs worldwide.
The enactment of this amendment comes at a time when concerns over incidents of sacrilege have periodically stirred public sentiment in Punjab. With this strengthened legal framework, the state aims to send a clear message about zero tolerance toward such acts, while reinforcing the deep-rooted reverence associated with the Guru Granth Sahib.
Observers believe that the real impact of the Act will unfold during its implementation phase, but its passage itself is being widely viewed as a decisive and symbolic step toward preserving religious sanctity and maintaining communal harmony in Punjab.