Haryana’s plan to build a separate Assembly in Chandigarh has been halted after the Centre directed the UT administration not to move the proposal forward. The Union Home Ministry has informed Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini that the project cannot proceed, prompting sharp reactions from Haryana Congress.
The proposal first surfaced in 2022 during the Northern Zonal Council meeting. Haryana currently shares the Chandigarh Assembly building with Punjab, but its UNESCO World Heritage status since 2016 prevents any alterations.
In 2023, Chandigarh had agreed to allot 10 acres near the IT Park, valued at ₹640 crore. Haryana offered 12 acres in Panchkula in exchange, but the land fell within an eco-sensitive zone, making construction impossible. The UT insisted on alternative land outside the ESZ.
Haryana wants a new Assembly before 2029 as delimitation in 2028 may increase seats beyond the current 90, creating space constraints.
Punjab strongly opposes giving Chandigarh land to Haryana, claiming the city as its capital. Meanwhile, Congress has demanded an all-party meeting, accusing the BJP government of failing on land, water rights, and clarity over Chandigarh.
