Political Storm in Punjab Over Chandigarh Lt Governor Bill
The Central government’s proposal to appoint a Lieutenant Governor (LG) for Chandigarh has triggered a political uproar in Punjab. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led state government and regional parties have fiercely opposed the Bill, calling it an unconstitutional power grab by the BJP-led Centre.
Why Is the Bill Controversial?
Chandigarh, the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana, has been governed by a Central-appointed Administrator since 1966. The new Bill seeks to replace this system with a politically appointed LG—a move critics say weakens Punjab’s claim over the city.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann slammed the proposal, calling it a “betrayal of Punjab’s rights” and vowing legal action. AAP leaders allege the BJP is replicating Delhi’s LG model to curb state autonomy.
Chandigarh: A Decades-Old Dispute
The conflict traces back to the 1966 Punjab Reorganisation Act, which made Chandigarh a Union Territory and joint capital after Punjab’s bifurcation. Punjab has long demanded full control, citing its Punjabi-speaking majority and cultural ties.
The BJP defends the Bill as an administrative upgrade, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah calling it a step toward “efficient UT governance.”
Opposition Unites Against BJP
The Bill has united Punjab’s political rivals—AAP, SAD, and Congress—against the Centre. SAD chief Sukhbir Badal termed it a “sovereignty attack,” while Congress leader Partap Bajwa warned of protests.
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal accused PM Modi of “killing democracy,” drawing parallels to Delhi’s statehood struggle.
Legal Battle Ahead?
Constitutional experts are split on the Bill’s validity. While the Centre cites Parliament’s authority over UTs, Punjab may challenge it in the Supreme Court, invoking Delhi’s statehood precedent.
Public Backlash and Protests
The move has ignited anger in Punjab, with #SaveChandigarh trending and student groups planning demonstrations. Residents fear reduced local representation under an LG.
What’s Next?
With the Bill likely to be tabled soon, Punjab’s leaders are preparing for a showdown—legally and politically. The Centre’s stance could deepen tensions in India’s federalism debate.
Stay updated with The New Indian Express for further developments.
