The issue of sacrilege once again took centre stage here on Sunday as Sukhbir Singh Badal launched a sharp attack on the state government, asking Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to “stop enacting drama in the name of special sessions” of the Vidhan Sabha.
Addressing a rally as part of the Shiromani Akali Dal’s (SAD) Punjab Bachao campaign, Badal said the previous SAD government had already enacted a stringent anti-sacrilege law in 2016. It provided for life imprisonment for those committing sacrilege against Guru Granth Sahib. He said the law was still pending approval with the Centre. He urged the CM to take up the sensitive matter seriously instead of politicising that.
The sacrilege incidents of 2015 and the subsequent police action continue to cast a shadow over politics in the region.
Reviving the debate, Badal alleged that such incidents began after the entry of the Aam Aadmi Party into Punjab. He also referred to a case involving an AAP MLA, questioning the party’s stance and legal support extended to him.
Positioning SAD as a regional force committed to Punjab’s interests, Badal accused “Delhi-based parties” of neglecting the state. He claimed they lacked concern for Punjab, while the SAD remained rooted in “sewa” and public service.
Apart from the sacrilege issue, Badal highlighted development works carried out during the SAD’s tenure, including improved infrastructure in Kotkapura. He also announced a series of promises for 2027, including 12-hour daytime power supply for farmers, interest-free loan up to Rs 10 lakh for youth, expansion of welfare schemes and enhanced pensions.