The Central Government's move to bring the Union Territory (UT) of Chandigarh currently administered by the Governor of Punjab under the purview of Article 240 of the Constitution has triggered strong opposition from the Punjab government.

The Centre reportedly plans to introduce a bill to amend the Constitution (likely the 131st Amendment Bill) during the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament, starting December 1st. This proposed amendment aims to include Chandigarh under Article 240, paving the way for the President to appoint a separate Lieutenant Governor (LG) for the UT.

Political Backlash and "Anti-Punjab" Stance -

The decision by the NDA-led Central Government has sparked a major political controversy. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has strongly objected to the proposal.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the opposition Congress party in Punjab have both expressed serious concern.

They have collectively termed the Centre's proposed action as "anti-Punjab." iQOO Z10 Lite 5G (Cyber Green, 6GB RAM, 128GB Storage) | 6000 mAh Battery | Dimensity 6300 5G Processor with 433K+* AnTuTu Score | IP64 Rated & Military Grade Shock-Resistance*

What is Article 240?

Article 240 grants the President specific powers to make regulations for the peace, progress, and good governance of Union Territories. This power is particularly significant for UTs that do not have their own legislative assemblies. Also Read: Gold and Silver Prices Rise in Bengaluru This Weekend