Chandigarh: Politics has heated up amid reports of bringing Chandigarh under the ambit of Article 240, but the Home Ministry has issued an official statement attempting to quell the controversy. The ministry clarified that the central government is only considering simplifying the legal process for Chandigarh. This proposal is in its preliminary stages and no final decision has been made.
The Home Ministry also clarified that this proposal will not alter Chandigarh’s existing administrative system or affect its traditional ties with Punjab and Haryana. The Ministry stated that further decisions will be taken only after consultation with all stakeholders, keeping Chandigarh’s interests in mind. It also stated that the government does not intend to introduce any bill on this subject in the upcoming winter session.
In fact, the controversy escalated when the Parliamentary Bulletin mentioned the “Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2025.” This bill proposed to include Chandigarh under Article 240, giving the President the power to directly make regulations for Chandigarh. Several political parties expressed concern that this would result in Chandigarh’s administration shifting from Punjab to an independent administrator.
The proposal sparked strong opposition in Punjab. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann called it an “injustice” to Punjab and said Chandigarh was an integral part of Punjab. Congress President Raja Warring warned that any attempt to “snatch” Chandigarh would have serious consequences. Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Badal called it an “attack” on Punjab’s rights. AAP MP Vikramjit Singh Sahni appealed to all Punjab MPs to meet the Home Minister. Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also reacted strongly to the alleged proposal.
