Chandigarh Inclusion Under Article 240: Centre Clarifies Proposal Still Under Consideration

The Union government has clarified that the proposal to include Chandigarh under Article 240 of the Constitution is “still under consideration.”

• It also stated that there is “no intention” to introduce any such Bill in the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament beginning 1 December 2025.
• The clarification came after political uproar — particularly from Punjab-based parties — following reports that the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2025, was listed in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha bulletins.

What the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2025, Proposes

• Inclusion of Chandigarh under Article 240

• The Bill aims to place Chandigarh in the category of Union Territories where the President can make regulations for governance.
• Article 240 currently applies to Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, and Puducherry (when its Assembly stands dissolved/suspended).

• Independent Administrator for Chandigarh

• Inclusion under Article 240 could pave the way for Chandigarh to have an independent Administrator (on the lines of L-G).
• This would end the current arrangement where the Governor of Punjab doubles as Chandigarh’s Administrator.

Potential Implications of Inclusion Under Article 240

• Reduced influence of Punjab and Haryana

• Chandigarh, as the shared capital of both states, currently applies key laws of Punjab and Haryana.
• The amendment could dilute the “control and interference” of the neighbouring states over Chandigarh.

• President’s regulatory powers

• Once included under Article 240, the President may frame regulations for Chandigarh for “peace, progress and good government.”
• This could lead to centralised administrative and legislative authority over the UT.

Current Status

• Chandigarh’s existing arrangement

• Chandigarh is a Union Territory without a legislature.
• The Punjab Governor serves as its Administrator as an additional charge due to its historical role as the shared capital.

• Proposal remains under examination

• The Centre has emphasised that discussions are ongoing and no final decision has been made.

Source: Mint