Punjab Rights Over Chandigarh Safe — this is the clear message from Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu, who is the only Punjab representative in the Modi Cabinet. Addressing the rising controversy, he said that Punjab Rights Over Chandigarh Safe remains the government’s firm position. Bittu accused opposition parties of spreading “baseless, emotional manipulation” by suggesting that the Centre planned to weaken Punjab’s long-standing administrative ties with Chandigarh.
He said Chandigarh is “dearer than life” to every Punjabi and assured that no move, now or in the future, will harm Punjab’s rights. His statement came soon after the Ministry of Home Affairs clarified that it was only studying a proposal to simplify the Union Territory’s law-making process. The MHA also said that no final decision had been taken.
Bittu added that the opposition created panic without understanding Article 240. He stressed that the Article does not define state capitals or boundaries, so it does not affect Punjab in any way.
Rejecting rumours about appointing a Lieutenant Governor or restructuring the administration, he said the Punjab Governor continues as Chandigarh’s Administrator. He also highlighted how new service rules benefited thousands of employees. Bittu urged Punjabis to stay calm and trust that the Centre will always protect Punjab’s interests.
