Proposed Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill On Chandigarh Status Sparks Strong opposition

Political opposition escalated in Punjab after reports suggested that the Centre was considering the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2025, to change Chandigarh’s status.

The proposal would reportedly bring the Union Territory under Article 240, giving the President the power to issue regulations for its governance.

Punjab leaders objected, asserting that such a move contradicts long-standing political resolutions affirming Chandigarh as part of Punjab.

The Centre clarified that no final decision has been taken and that the bill may not be introduced in the upcoming Winter Session. Amid the controversy, concerns remain over the constitutional implications of altering Chandigarh’s administrative framework and its impact on federal–state relations.