The Ministry of Home Affairs has clarified that the central government has no intention to introduce any bill altering Chandigarh’s governance structure in the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament, following a major political controversy.
Key Clarifications from MHA
The MHA stated that the proposal to bring Chandigarh under Article 240 of the Constitution is “still under consideration” and “no final decision has been taken.”
“The proposal only to simplify the Central Government’s law-making process for the Union Territory of Chandigarh is still under consideration with the Central Government,” the ministry said in an official statement.
The MHA emphasized that the proposal “in no way seeks to alter Chandigarh’s governance or administrative structure, nor does it aim to change the traditional arrangements between Chandigarh and the States of Punjab or Haryana.”
The ministry assured that “a suitable decision will be taken only after adequate consultations with all stakeholders” and there is “no need for any concern on this matter.”
Why the Controversy Erupted
The political storm began when reports emerged that the BJP-led Centre planned to place Chandigarh under Article 240 through the 131st Amendment Bill. This would allow the President to appoint a lieutenant governor and make regulations directly, similar to other Union Territories like Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
The move triggered immediate backlash across Punjab’s political spectrum, with leaders calling it an attack on Punjab’s rights over Chandigarh.
Political Reactions
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann strongly criticized the move, calling it “a conspiracy to snatch” Punjab’s capital.
“Chandigarh was, is and will always remain an integral part of the state,” Mann stated, arguing that Punjab as the “parent state” has full rights over Chandigarh.
The proposal faced opposition from all major parties including the ruling Aam Aadmi Party, Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal.
AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal launched a sharp attack, calling the proposed amendment “a direct assault on Punjab’s identity and its constitutional rights” and accusing the Centre of “tearing apart the federal structure.”
Kejriwal declared that “Chandigarh belongs to Punjab and shall remain Punjab’s,” adding that the move amounted to “wounding the very soul of Punjab.”
Background: Chandigarh’s Status
Chandigarh currently serves as the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana. Both states have claimed full rights over the city for decades, but it has remained a Union Territory since 1966.
If implemented, the proposal could allow the Centre to appoint an independent administrator for Chandigarh, similar to how the UT earlier had its own chief secretary.
