Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has called a session of the Punjab Assembly from October 22 to October 27, putting the spotlight on the issues the state government may bring before the House. While the session spans six calendar days, reports suggest that legislative business could take place on three days.
The Assembly’s detailed programme has not yet been released. One issue drawing attention is the law dealing with the desecration of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, commonly referred to as the Beadbi law. However, its inclusion in the session’s proceedings has not been confirmed.
What Is The Expected Agenda For The Punjab Assembly Session?
The government is yet to announce the final list of business for the October session. Several Punjab-related matters could come up for discussion, but the Beadbi law remains a possible issue rather than a confirmed agenda item.
The official Assembly programme will clarify which matters are scheduled for debate and whether the government intends to discuss the legislation during the session.
Why Is The Beadbi Law Under Review In Punjab?
The legislation has come into focus as the Punjab government considers concerns and suggestions relating to its provisions.
Mann has formed a seven-member committee to examine the law and consult relevant Sikh religious institutions and other stakeholders, including Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).
The panel is expected to review the issues raised and submit its assessment to help the government determine the next steps. The committee’s review does not, by itself, mean that amendments have been finalised.
What Has Bhagwant Mann Said About The Beadbi Law?
Mann has maintained that the legislation’s central purpose must remain intact. He has emphasised that strict punishment for sacrilege, including life imprisonment and substantial fines, should not be diluted.
At the same time, the government is examining concerns surrounding certain provisions of the law. The review is intended to consider these issues while preserving the legislation’s stated objective.
Any amendment would require further decisions by the government and the appropriate legislative process.
Who Are The Seven Members Of The Beadbi Law Review Committee?
The committee announced by the Punjab government comprises the following members:
- Former Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh
- Sant Giani Harnam Singh Khalsa
- Sant Baba Sewa Singh Rampur Khera
- Retired Justice Jaspal Singh
- Retired Justice Gurbir Singh
- Former IPS officer Jatinder Singh Aulakh
- Law officer Preet Inder Pal Singh
The panel’s role is to examine suggestions from stakeholders and assess the legislation before the government decides how to proceed.
Will The Beadbi Law Be Discussed During The October Session?
For now, a discussion on the Beadbi law remains unconfirmed. The official list of Assembly business will determine whether the issue features in the October 22–27 session.
If the legislation is taken up, the proceedings could offer a clearer indication of the government’s position following the committee’s review. Until the agenda is published, however, it would be premature to treat the law as a confirmed item for debate.
