Strict Anti-Sacrilege Law Sparks Political Shift in Punjab, Hundreds of Akali Dal and Congress Leaders Join AAP

Chandigarh: Punjab is witnessing a major political realignment after the implementation of the ‘Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Bill 2026’ by the Bhagwant Mann government. The strict anti-sacrilege legislation has received strong public backing, prompting several prominent leaders and hundreds of workers from the Shiromani Akali Dal and Congress to switch sides and join the Aam Aadmi Party.

AAP Gains Momentum Over Anti-Sacrilege Stand

The Bhagwant Mann-led government introduced the ‘Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Bill 2026’ with the objective of preventing sacrilege incidents and ensuring strict punishment for those found guilty of disrespecting Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The law has quickly become a major political talking point across Punjab and is receiving widespread support from religious as well as political circles.

Hundreds of Leaders Leave Traditional Parties

Following the implementation of the law, several senior leaders and hundreds of workers associated with the Shiromani Akali Dal and Congress formally joined the Aam Aadmi Party on Tuesday. The induction ceremony was conducted by Chief Minister’s OSD Rajbir Singh Ghuman, who welcomed the leaders into the party fold.

‘Previous Governments Failed on Sacrilege’

The newly inducted leaders strongly criticised previous governments, accusing them of using sacrilege incidents for political gains while failing to deliver justice. They stated that the Bhagwant Mann government has shown genuine commitment and deep respect toward Guru Sahib by implementing a strict legal framework against sacrilege.

Leaders Say Law Will Create Fear Among Offenders

The leaders who joined AAP said the legislation would act as a strong deterrent against anti-social elements attempting to disturb communal harmony through sacrilege incidents. According to them, the law will help maintain peace, religious harmony, and social stability in Punjab.

AAP Promises Full Respect to New Entrants

Rajbir Singh Ghuman assured all the newly joined leaders and workers that they would receive complete respect, recognition, and opportunities within the Aam Aadmi Party. He stated that the party is committed to strengthening Punjab through unity and inclusive politics.

Prominent Faces Who Joined AAP

Among the key leaders who joined AAP were Kitu Grewal, former Women President of Punjab Congress and Member of Women and Child Welfare; Satpal Singh, former Chairman of PUNGRAIN; Kamaldeep Singh Rana Warka, General Secretary Punjab Congress; Samandeep Kaur, President Women Cell Congress Malout; Hardev Singh, former Chairman Block Samiti; Charanjeet Kaur, Block Samiti Member; Gurmel Singh, General Secretary Rural and Zila Parishad candidate from Talwandi Sabo; Jaskaran Singh Jathwal, former Congress General Secretary; along with several other grassroots leaders and former sarpanches.

Political Heat Rises in Punjab

The development has intensified political activity across Punjab, with analysts viewing the anti-sacrilege legislation as a major factor strengthening AAP’s political position. The move is also being seen as a setback for opposition parties, especially over their handling of past sacrilege-related controversies.