Punjab has long wanted Chandigarh to be its main city, called its capital. A capital city is where the government of a state is based. Having a capital helps the state run smoothly and gives it a clear center for administration and politics.
This issue of Chandigarh is important for Punjab because it is connected to the state’s history and rights. Many people in Punjab feel that Chandigarh should officially be part of their state. For a long time, there have been discussions about this topic. Now, the government and political leaders are making new statements about their plans and concerns.
Key Highlights:
- On January 26, 2026, which is India’s Republic Day, the Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, made an important statement. He said his government is working hard to make Chandigarh the capital of Punjab. This shows how serious the state is about the issue.
- CM Mann also pointed out that Punjab is a contributing state for the country in many ways. Still, it does not have its own official capital city. Many in Punjab believe that they deserve this recognition and want Chandigarh to be officially part of their state.
- The Chief Minister strongly opposed any ideas to remove Chandigarh from Punjab. He said the state will not accept or agree to losing Chandigarh from its territory. His statement reflects the strong feelings in Punjab about keeping Chandigarh as their own.
- Going back in history, in 1970, a decision was made by the central government of India. That year, it was decided that Chandigarh would be part of Punjab. This was a significant moment because it meant that Chandigarh was considered part of Punjab’s territory.
- The government of Punjab also claims other rights related to the city. They say they have rights over Panjab University, which is a major education institution located there. Additionally, they claim rights over the waters of rivers that flow through the region, arguing that these should belong to Punjab.
Current Status:
As of January 2026, no official decision has been made to transfer Chandigarh to Punjab. The government has not announced any new rules or agreements about changing the status of the city. Many people are waiting to see what will happen next.
This uncertainty means that the issue is still open and unresolved. Discussions and debates about Chandigarh’s future continue, both in government circles and among the people of Punjab.
Why It Matters:
This debate is more than just about land or borders. It touches on the identity and rights of Punjab as a state. For many residents, having control over Chandigarh is important for their sense of pride and recognition.
A separate capital helps the state have its own government, courts, and major offices in one central place. Without a capital, it can be harder for Punjab to fully administer its affairs and express its identity.
Furthermore, the issue of Chandigarh reflects broader efforts to improve relations between the states and the central government of India. Discussions like these show how states want more control over their own affairs and recognition of their historical claims.
Important Dates / Numbers:
- January 26, 2026: A key statement was made during India’s Republic Day celebrations.
- November 22, 2025: CM Mann publicly opposed a proposal from the Union government related to Chandigarh.
- 1970: The year when the central government decided Chandigarh should be part of Punjab.
Official Position:
The government of Punjab is actively working to have Chandigarh officially recognized as its capital. They are making efforts to strengthen their claim and ensure that Chandigarh remains part of Punjab.
At the same time, the government is very firm about not accepting any plans that might take Chandigarh away from Punjab's control. They emphasize their commitment to protecting their rights and interests in the city.
In conclusion, the discussion about Chandigarh's status is ongoing. It involves many political and historical aspects, and it continues to be an important issue for the people and government of Punjab.
