Punjab’s Capital Under Threat? Centre’s Proposed UT Law Sparks Concern

A legislative proposal by the Union government to bring Chandigarh under the ambit of Article 240 of the Constitution has ignited a political firestorm in Punjab. The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill 2025, expected in Parliament’s winter session starting December 1, 2025, would enable the President to make regulations for Chandigarh, potentially leading to the appointment of an independent administrator. This move has been met with fierce condemnation from Punjab’s leading political parties, including the Congress, Akali Dal, and AAP. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann strongly opposed the bill, describing it as a ‘grave injustice’ and a ‘conspiracy to snatch’ Punjab’s capital. He reiterated Punjab’s indisputable claim to Chandigarh as its rightful capital. Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring termed the proposed legislation ‘uncalled for’ and cautioned against any attempt to alienate Chandigarh from Punjab, warning of significant repercussions. He pledged the Congress’s opposition in Parliament and urged Chief Minister Mann to intervene promptly. Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal labelled the bill a ‘betrayal’ of past assurances and an ‘assault on Punjab’s rights,’ stating it aims to permanently remove Chandigarh from Punjab’s control and negate its capital status. AAP MP Vikramjit Singh Sahney highlighted the historical basis of Punjab’s claim to Chandigarh, its designation as the capital after Partition, and the subsequent reorganization. He urged all Punjab MPs to collectively petition the Union Home Minister to address this sensitive issue.