Punjab Government Free to Decide District Merger, Rules HC became the central development on Monday as the Punjab and Haryana High Court dismissed a PIL challenging the proposed merger of Garhshankar subdivision with the upcoming Anandpur Sahib district. The ruling reaffirmed that the Punjab Government Free to Decide District Merger policy lies solely within the state’s administrative authority.
The Bench of Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sanjiv Berry clarified that decisions on forming or merging districts fall under the state’s exclusive policy domain. They stressed that courts should not interfere unless a decision is so arbitrary that it shocks the conscience of an ordinary citizen.
The petitioner raised concerns about the absence of consultation, feasibility assessments and formal approvals. However, the court noted that the merger had not yet been officially notified, leaving no valid grounds for judicial intervention. The Bench therefore dismissed the petition.
Meanwhile, opposition parties, the Bar Association of Garhshankar and local residents continue to oppose the proposed Anandpur Sahib district. They argue that Garhshankar belongs historically, economically and emotionally to Hoshiarpur and should remain part of the district. Protests reflect strong public sentiment as the state considers creating Punjab’s 24th district.
