Constitution 131st Amendment Bill Seeks to Bring Chandigarh Under Article 240

Constitution 131st Amendment Bill 2025: Centre Proposes Shift in Chandigarh’s Governance Framework

The Union Government’s decision to introduce the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2025 in the upcoming parliamentary session has triggered intense political discussions, particularly in Punjab. The Bill proposes to modify the constitutional arrangement for Chandigarh by bringing it under Article 240 , a provision that empowers the President to frame regulations for Union Territories without a legislative assembly.

Aim of the Proposed Amendment

The primary objective of the Bill is to formally classify Chandigarh alongside Union Territories such as Lakshadweep, Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands—all governed directly through Presidential regulations. By adding Chandigarh to this list, the Centre argues that administrative processes will be streamlined and brought in alignment with existing constitutional models for centrally administered territories.

Possible Governance Implications for Chandigarh

If the amendment is enacted, the President would gain explicit authority to issue regulations for Chandigarh. This may alter the long-standing administrative arrangement where the Governor of Punjab serves concurrently as Chandigarh’s Administrator . While no major structural overhaul is proposed, experts believe the move could open pathways for clearer separation between the administrative responsibilities of Punjab and Chandigarh.

Political Response and Regional Sensitivities

The proposal has faced strong criticism from Punjab-based parties including the AAP and Shiromani Akali Dal. They argue that placing Chandigarh under Article 240 may weaken Punjab’s historical claim over the city and disrupt the balance established since the reorganisation of Punjab and Haryana. Some leaders have described the proposal as politically sensitive and potentially disruptive to federal principles.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Article 240 empowers the President to issue regulations for select Union Territories.

• The Bill proposes to add Chandigarh to the list under Article 240.

• Chandigarh is the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana.

• The Centre clarified that existing administrative arrangements will not be altered .