A 2026 amendment to the sacrilege law in the Indian state of Punjab is causing alarm among Christian communities in the region. The Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026, transforms a limited legal measure into a powerful criminal law tool, carrying a minimum sentence of seven years and a maximum of twenty years in prison, potentially extendable to life imprisonment. It also makes the offense non-bailable and grants full immunity to law enforcement officers. Christian believers in Punjab fear that the legislation could be applied arbitrarily against evangelistic activities.
Punjab has had a sacrilege law since 2008, but its criminal provisions were limited and rarely applied directly. The 2026 amendment radically changes this situation, creating a legal instrument that can be deployed quickly against anyone accused of disrespecting sacred scriptures. In a predominantly Sikh state, this could include comparisons between sacred texts or the proclamation that Jesus is the only way to God. For Dalit Christians and those from other marginalized communities, the law represents an existential threat to their freedom to express and share their faith.
India already ranks among the ten worst countries for Christians, according to the Open Doors World Watch List. Attacks on pastors, the destruction of churches and pressure on converts to return to Hinduism or Sikhism are routine in several states. In Punjab, where the Christian minority includes many former members of lower castes who have found dignity and hope in Christ, the new law could silence testimonies that were previously tolerated. Organizations monitoring religious freedom have already activated international protection mechanisms.
How to pray: Intercede for Christians in Punjab who face the threat of this new law. Pray for wisdom for Christian leaders as they seek to bear witness with courage and prudence in this new legal environment. Ask God to open the eyes of Indian lawmakers to the value of religious freedom. Cry out for special protection for Dalit Christians, who are already doubly vulnerable because of their faith and social background.
