Chandigarh/New Delhi, Nov 23: Facing intensifying opposition over plans to classify Chandigarh alongside other Union Territories, the Union government on Sunday declared that it will not introduce the related constitutional amendment in the winter session of Parliament. The clarification follows regional uproar and mounting criticism from Punjab-based parties and civil-society groups.
The Centre had earlier included the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill in the Parliament bulletin, indicating its intent to formalise Chandigarh’s placement within a common UT framework — similar to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Puducherry. The move generated widespread concern in Punjab, where political parties described it as undermining historic administrative arrangements.
In a message published on X, the Ministry of Home Affairs said that consultations are ongoing and stressed that no final call has been taken. “The proposal to simplify the process of law-making exclusively by the Central Government for the Union Territory of Chandigarh is currently under consideration at the level of the Central Government. No final decision has been taken on this proposal,” the ministry stated.
The ministry also asserted that the draft plan does not rewrite Chandigarh’s governance model nor affect its traditional linkages with Punjab or Haryana. It further said a final verdict would only emerge after the Centre evaluates stakeholder views. “An appropriate decision will be taken only after adequate consultation with all stakeholders, keeping in mind the interests of Chandigarh,” the statement noted.
To quell fears, the government added that there was “no need for concern” and categorically said it has no plans to table the Bill in the winter session beginning December 1. The clarification followed the Punjab BJP’s announcement that it would urge the Centre to withdraw the proposal, saying the measure offends public sentiment in Punjab.
