The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a strong clarification, stating that it has no intention of making any changes to Chandigarh’s governance despite the heated political debate surrounding Article 240. The statement comes amid rising concerns from political leaders in Punjab and Haryana who feared that the Centre was preparing to alter the Union Territory’s administrative framework.

What Sparked the Controversy?

The political storm began after speculation suggested that Chandigarh could be brought under Article 240, a constitutional provision that allows the President to make regulations for certain Union Territories. This triggered sharp reactions from leaders across Punjab, who viewed the move as an attempt to weaken the state’s long-standing connection to the shared capital.

MHA’s Clarification

To calm the uproar, the MHA clarified that:

• It has no plan or proposal to change Chandigarh’s current governance model.
• No bill related to Chandigarh’s administration is set to be introduced in the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament.
• The aim of any administrative discussion is merely to streamline legislative processes, not to alter political control.
• Any future decisions involving Chandigarh will be taken only after thorough consultations with all key stakeholders, including Punjab and Haryana.

Political Reaction

The reports triggered strong criticism from several political parties in Punjab, who expressed concerns that such a move could disrupt the delicate balance between the Centre and the state. Leaders accused the government of attempting to “interfere” with the status of Chandigarh, prompting widespread debate and public concern.

What This Means for Chandigarh

The MHA’s clarification brings relief to residents of the Union Territory as well as political leaders who feared abrupt changes. The Centre has reiterated that Chandigarh’s interests remain a top priority and that its administrative structure will not be altered without broad consensus.

Looking Ahead

As the Winter Session approaches, stakeholders will closely watch for any developments related to Union Territory governance. For now, the Centre has made it clear that Chandigarh’s status remains unchanged, and no legislative changes are in motion.