Centre sets the record straight: No plans to alter Chandigarh's status, says MHA

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): The issue of Chandigarh's administrative status has been turbulent in Punjab politics for the past few days. Speculation was rife that the central government would make major changes to Chandigarh's constitutional status during the winter session of Parliament. These discussions prompted the Punjab government, the Congress Party, and the Akali Dal to voice their opposition unanimously. However, the central government has now dismissed these concerns and clarified its stance.

There was talk in political circles that the central government might introduce a bill in the winter session of Parliament, running from December 1 to 19, that would place Chandigarh under Article 240 of the Constitution, replacing Article 239. If this were to happen, Chandigarh would become a full-fledged Union Territory (UT), with administrative powers vested directly in the President and the central government. Punjab leaders feared that this change would completely erode Punjab's traditional and administrative control over Chandigarh. This fear prompted strong opposition from all major parties in the state.

Seeing the controversy deepen, the central government issued an official statement clarifying the situation. The government clarified that it has no intention of introducing any bill in the winter session of Parliament that would change the status of Chandigarh. The proposal currently under consideration at the central government level aims only to "simplify the process of lawmaking by the central government." No final decision has yet been taken on this matter.

The Center addressed the concerns of Punjab and Haryana, stating that the proposal does not alter Chandigarh's existing governance system or its "traditional relationship" with both states (Punjab and Haryana). The government has made it clear that any future appropriate decision will be taken only after adequate consultation with all stakeholders and keeping Chandigarh's interests in mind.

A statement issued by the government clearly stated, "There is no need for concern on this issue. The central government has no intention of introducing a bill to this effect in the upcoming winter session of Parliament." This clarification is expected to calm the heated political atmosphere in Punjab over this issue.