Saptrishi Soni। The political atmosphere in Punjab has once again turned heated as the Central government’s move to bring Chandigarh under Article 240 of the Constitution has triggered a strong and united reaction from non-BJP parties in the state. The proposal, introduced through the 31st Amendment Bill in the winter session of Parliament, seeks to place Chandigarh in the same administrative category as Union Territories such as Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman and Diu. This has raised concerns in Punjab over what many describe as an attempt to “delink” the Union Territory from the state.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has sharply opposed the move, calling it a direct attack on the rights and sentiments of Punjab. According to him, Chandigarh was, is, and will always remain an integral part of Punjab, and any amendment that challenges this historical and emotional connection will not be tolerated. Mann argued that the Centre must not disturb the delicate federal balance, especially considering that Chandigarh has always been administered by the Punjab Governor and not an independent authority.
This conflict also arrives at a politically sensitive moment. The recent friction between Punjab and Haryana over the restructuring of Panjab University has already heightened regional tension. With Haryana demanding a greater role and the Centre’s position seeming inconsistent, political observers believe this latest move may further destabilize an already fragile equation.
Non-BJP parties in Punjab, including the Aam Aadmi Party, the Congress, and the Shiromani Akali Dal, have joined hands to oppose what they call a “conspiracy” to dilute Punjab’s rights. Leaders argue that the move appears designed to weaken Punjab’s claims over Chandigarh by appointing an independent administrator rather than keeping the governance structure connected to the state.
Punjab’s political class is unanimous that the amendment—if passed—will mark a significant shift in the federal character of governance. Many fear this could set a precedent for the centralization of powers over joint or disputed territories in other parts of India as well.
The uproar also reflects deep emotional and cultural ties. Chandigarh is not just the administrative capital but a symbol of Punjab’s post-Partition identity. Any attempt to alter its governance framework is viewed as an intrusion into Punjab’s historical rights, territorial claim, and political status.
At its core, the debate goes beyond just administrative restructuring. It touches the foundational questions of federalism, regional autonomy, and the rightful status of a territory that Punjab has considered inseparable from its political and cultural landscape. As the Centre and Punjab prepare for a prolonged confrontation, the controversy over Article 240 is likely to dominate the political narrative in Punjab in the coming days.
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