Desecrations Will Not Stop: The Sikh Panth Must Formulate a New Strategy for Its Development and Existence

Desecrations Will Not Stop: The Sikh Panth Must Formulate a New Strategy for Its Development and Existence

​By Professor Balwinderpal Singh
 

​The Guru Granth Sahib is not merely an ordinary book, but the eternal Living Guru. In 1708, Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared it the living Guru. It stands distinct and unique from other scriptures—unlike the conversational expression of the Bhagavad Gita, the prophetic message of the Quran, or the narratives of the Bible, it is a living entity. As Gurbani states: "Sabad Guru Surat Dhun Chela" (Page 943). It serves as an ideal model of truth, challenging the world's fragmentation, racism, injustice, discrimination, oppression, and slavery.
 

​The Need for Specific Legislation
 

​Because of this unique status, a separate law is required. The 'Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scriptures Bill-2025' (introduced in July 2025 and currently with the Select Committee) places the Guru Granth Sahib, Gita, Quran, and Bible on the same level, proposing life imprisonment for the desecration of any. However, this equality diminishes the status of the Guru Granth Sahib as the Living Guru. A specific law should be enacted that addresses the Guru Granth Sahib exclusively.
 

​Understanding the Pattern of Attacks
 

​Why do these acts of desecration not stop? Because they are not random occurrences; they are systematic attacks on a philosophy that challenges communalism, Manu-wad (caste-based hegemony), hatred, injustice, inequality, untouchability, and casteism. Gurbani principles like "Manas ki jaat sabhai ekai pehchanbo" (Recognize the human race as one, Page 611) serve the cause of universal freedom—God resides in all, making caste systems, divisions, and superstitions futile. All humans are one; they are creations of the same God.
​In 2026, these incidents continue: events in Sthiala village (Amritsar, March 2026), Mahal village near Jalandhar (January 2026), and Thikriwala in Barnala (January 2026) have deeply saddened the Sangat (congregation). Old wounds, such as the 2015 Bargari incidents, are still fresh. These attacks are a strategy by those opposed to Sikhs—intended to distract the Panth and prevent the propagation of the Guru's philosophy.
 

​A Path Forward
 

​The Sikh Panth and its organizations should shift their focus from merely reacting to desecrations toward propagating the philosophy of the Guru Granth Sahib. Naam Simran (meditation on the Name) and Seva (selfless service) are the practical methods for this, which transform a person into a Param Manukh (an elevated/ideal human).

​Sikh stages often focus on storytelling. While stories may spark interest, it is philosophy that shapes humans into divine beings. The Panth must emphasize the interpretation of the Guru's Hukam (Command). The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Panthic institutions must prioritize this.

​Sikh philosophy can still illuminate the world today. The Panth must rise above these distractions and promote Gurmat philosophy so that a Param Manukh can be