Centre drops plan to bring Chandigarh under direct central rule (for now)

India Nov 29, 2025

The government has decided not to move forward with a bill that would let the President directly make rules for Chandigarh, stepping back after strong pushback from Punjab's main political parties.
The proposal had sparked immediate concerns about who really gets to call the shots in the city.

Why does it matter?

For Punjab, Chandigarh isn't just any city—it's their capital and a big part of their identity since Partition.
Leaders like CM Bhagwant Mann warned this move was "against the interests of Punjab," while Congress called it "totally uncalled for" and warned of serious repercussions.
With elections coming up in 2027, who controls Chandigarh is set to be a hot topic.
The Centre says no changes will happen without talking to everyone involved.