Congress Leader Sounds Alarm Over Chandigarh Administration Changes
Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Singh Surjewala has launched a strong criticism against the central government's proposal to bring Chandigarh under Article 240 of the Constitution. The development, which occurred on November 23, 2025, has sparked significant political controversy in both Punjab and Haryana.
Surjewala described the move as "a debilitating assault on federalism" that threatens the rights of both states over their joint capital. He expressed serious concerns about the implications for the shared heritage of Punjab and Haryana.
Pattern of Concerning Developments
The Congress leader pointed to what he called a "disturbing pattern" of recent events that threaten the interests of both states. According to Surjewala, the current proposal regarding Chandigarh follows similar concerning developments involving Bhakra Dam and Panjab University over the past couple of months.
"The latest instance of amending Article 240 is the new tool to attack the identity, ethos and spirit of the states of Haryana and Punjab," Surjewala stated during his address to media representatives in Chandigarh.
He questioned the timing and motivation behind the move, noting that there appears to be no provocation or sudden revelation that would justify such a significant constitutional change. The Congress leader characterized it as demonstrating a "unbridled desire to take absolute control of Chandigarh" while ignoring the sentiments of people in both states.
Warning to State Governments and Political Leaders
Surjewala offered direct advice to the Nayab Singh Saini government in Haryana and the BJP leadership in Punjab, urging them to "smell the coffee and stand up for the rights" of their respective states. He emphasized the need for both state administrations to protect the interests of their people against what he perceives as central overreach.
Simultaneously, the Congress leader issued a caution to politicians in Punjab who he accused of creating what he called a "false bogey" of exclusive claims over Chandigarh and Panjab University. He argued that such parochial arguments are self-defeating and contrary to the spirit of Punjabiyat.
"Haryana was also Punjab prior to 1st November, 1966. Then, how can Haryana be denied its rightful legacy?" Surjewala questioned, highlighting the shared historical background of both states.
Brotherly Relationship Under Threat
In his most poignant remarks, Surjewala used the metaphor of brothers to describe the relationship between Punjab and Haryana. "Remember, two brothers grow up, they separate, start their own families, divide properties amicably but the blood and spirit always remain the same," he stated.
The Congress leader expressed concern that the central government's actions could transform the sibling relationship between the two states into an adversarial one. He urged political leaders and citizens alike not to fall for divisive politics that could damage their shared heritage.
Surjewala concluded with a powerful message: "Don't let Modi govt divide Punjab and Haryana in an acrimonious relationship or make them adversarial opponents." He emphasized that both states have the potential to work together as brothers for the better future of coming generations.
The Congress leader insisted that the central government must immediately withdraw from what he termed "wholly ill-advised moves" that threaten the delicate balance between the two states and their shared institutions.
