Paper: GS – II, Subject: Polity, Topic: Federalism, Issue: The Chandigarh Issue.
Context:
The long-standing Chandigarh dispute has resurfaced after the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh sought a 7.19% share in Chandigarh, arguing that parts of the erstwhile Punjab were also added to Himachal Pradesh in 1966. While Punjab continues to demand Chandigarh’s transfer, Haryana insists that any transfer must include suitable compensation.
Key Takeaways:
Background:
- After Partition (1947): Lahore, the capital of undivided Punjab, became part of Pakistan. India therefore decided to build a new capital for Punjab.
- Creation of Chandigarh: Chandigarh was planned by Le Corbusier as India’s first modern planned city.
- Its Capitol Complex contains the Assembly, Secretariat and High Court, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Punjab Reorganisation (1966): Punjab was reorganised into Punjab and Haryana, while some areas of erstwhile Punjab were merged into the already existing Union Territory of Himachal Pradesh.
- Chandigarh was made a Union Territory and declared the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana as an interim arrangement.
- Rajiv–Longowal Accord (1985): The Union Government promised to transfer Chandigarh to Punjab on 26 January 1986, but the proposal was never implemented.
Explanation:
Why does Punjab claim Chandigarh?
- Chandigarh was built to replace Lahore as Punjab’s capital.
- It has strong historical, cultural and linguistic links with Punjab.
- Punjab argues that the promise made under the Rajiv–Longowal Accord should be honoured.
Why does Haryana oppose the transfer?
- Haryana has used Chandigarh as its capital since 1966.
- It argues that transferring Chandigarh without compensation would be unfair.
- Haryana seeks either equivalent territory or financial assistance to establish a new capital.
Why has Himachal Pradesh entered the debate?
- Himachal Pradesh argues that some areas of the erstwhile Punjab were added to it in 1966.
- Since it was part of the same reorganisation process, it claims a share in Chandigarh’s assets and administration.
- Punjab, however, rejects this claim.
Why is Chandigarh unique?
- Chandigarh has evolved into a cosmopolitan city with residents from Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh.
- It is an important administrative, educational and commercial centre for North India.
- Beyond ownership, concerns are growing over preserving Le Corbusier’s original vision amid urbanisation and redevelopment pressures.
Conclusion:
Nearly six decades after Punjab’s reorganisation, Chandigarh remains a symbol of India’s complex federal politics. A durable solution requires balancing historical commitments, administrative convenience and the shared interests of all stakeholders while safeguarding the city’s unique architectural and cultural heritage.
Source: (The Indian Express, The Hindu)
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