After spending nearly 560 days atop a 400-foot BSNL tower in Punjab’s Samana, activist Gurjeet Singh Khalsa was safely brought down on Friday morning, marking the end of one of the state’s most unusual and prolonged protests.
Khalsa, 43, had climbed the tower on October 12, 2024, demanding stricter legal action against incidents of sacrilege involving the Guru Granth Sahib. His protest finally concluded after the Punjab government notified a new law aimed at imposing tougher penalties for such offenses.
A coordinated team of fire department personnel, police, and district administration officials carried out the operation using a specialised crane and safety equipment. According to officials, the process required careful planning due to the height and risks involved.
As Khalsa descended, chants of “Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal” echoed from supporters gathered below. He was later taken to a hospital for a routine medical check-up, while supporters welcomed him with flower petals.
Speaking after reaching the ground, Khalsa called the development a victory. He expressed gratitude to the state government, including Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan, for introducing legislation addressing his concerns.
The protest had drawn widespread attention across Punjab due to both its symbolic significance and the extreme conditions Khalsa endured. Living in a makeshift shelter atop the tower, he braved harsh weather through multiple seasons. Basic supplies were sent to him using ropes during his stay.
Officials involved in the rescue said safety measures such as harness belts, chains, and a turntable ladder were used. Khalsa was first brought down to an intermediate platform before being safely lowered to the ground.
At the center of his protest was the demand for stronger legal provisions against sacrilege. The recently notified Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026 introduces stricter punishments to deter such acts and protect religious sentiments.
Under the law, individuals found guilty of sacrilege can face imprisonment ranging from seven to 20 years along with fines between ₹2 lakh and ₹10 lakh. In cases involving conspiracy aimed at disturbing communal harmony, the punishment may extend to life imprisonment, with fines going up to ₹25 lakh.
With the implementation of the new law, Khalsa chose to end his protest, bringing closure to a demonstration that remained in public focus for over a year and a half.
