Political Storm in Punjab Over Chandigarh Bill: What’s the Controversy About

Chandigarh: Tensions are rising in Punjab politics as preparations are underway to introduce a Constitutional Amendment Bill regarding Chandigarh in the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament. Punjab’s political parties are portraying the proposed bill as an attack on the state’s rights, while BJP leaders have dismissed the opposition’s claims as baseless.

Why the Bill Matters

Chandigarh’s status is deeply tied to Punjab’s regional identity, making it a sensitive political issue ahead of the 2027 state assembly elections. The BJP, which won only two seats in Punjab in 2022 with a vote share of around 6%, could face political backlash if opposition parties frame the bill as undermining Punjab’s rights.

The Controversy

The bill seeks to include Chandigarh under Article 240 of the Constitution, similar to other Union Territories without legislative assemblies. Article 240 empowers the President to make rules for UTs such as Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, and Puducherry.

Upon announcement, Punjab leaders opposed the bill, calling it an infringement on state authority, which triggered heated political debates.

Government Response

Following the backlash, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) clarified that the bill will not be introduced in the Winter Session for now. The ministry emphasized that any decision will be made after consultations with all stakeholders and assured that the proposal does not aim to alter Chandigarh’s administrative framework or existing arrangements with Punjab and Haryana.

Chandigarh’s Historical Context

• Foundation: October 1952 by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru
• Inauguration: 7 October 1953 by President Babu Rajendra Prasad
• Background: Before 1956, Chandigarh served as the capital of the Patiala and East Punjab States Union (PEPSU). In 1966, following the Shah Commission recommendations, Haryana was carved out, and Chandigarh was designated as a shared Union Territory between Punjab and Haryana.

Previous Attempts

In August 2016, a similar move to appoint a separate administrator for Chandigarh was proposed but later withdrawn due to opposition.

Expert Opinion

Constitutional expert Vijay Shankar Pandey stated that Chandigarh’s unique situation requires a modern administrative framework, which could benefit its development in the long run.

Political Implications

Punjab BJP leaders, including State President Sunil Jakhar and National General Secretary Tarun Chugh, urged the public not to be swayed by misinformation or fear-mongering. They reassured that Chandigarh remains an integral part of Punjab, and any concerns raised by opposition parties are politically motivated.