The Punjab government has taken a landmark decision, officially declaring three historically significant locations as holy cities. This move brings with it a complete prohibition on the sale of meat, alcohol, tobacco, and all other intoxicating substances within their limits.
Historic Notification Seals Holy City Status
On December 15, the state administration issued a formal notification granting the special status. The areas designated are the Walled City of Amritsar in Amritsar district, the city of Anandpur Sahib in Ropar district, and the city of Talwandi Sabo (Sri Damdama Sahib) in Bathinda district. The government stated this step formally recognizes their profound spiritual importance and global religious relevance.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced this decision in a video message from Sri Anandpur Sahib. The announcement was timed with the state-level function commemorating the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Mann described the move as a historic implementation of a resolution passed unanimously by the Punjab Assembly just last month.
Connection to Sacred Sikh Takhts Drives the Decision
The rationale behind selecting these three cities is deeply rooted in Sikh religious history. Chief Minister Mann highlighted that three of the five Sikh takhts (thrones of authority) are located in Punjab, and each is situated in one of these newly declared holy cities.
- Akal Takht is located in the Walled City of Amritsar.
- Takht Keshgarh Sahib is in Anandpur Sahib.
- Takht Damdama Sahib is in Talwandi Sabo.
"The cities associated with these sacred takhts have now officially been granted the status of centres of faith and holy cities," Mann stated. He firmly declared that the sale of meat, alcohol, tobacco, and any intoxicating substances will be completely prohibited in these urban areas.
Focus on Pilgrim Facilities and Future Plans
Alongside the prohibitions, the Chief Minister promised enhanced amenities for the millions of devotees who visit these sites. The Punjab government has committed to ensuring all necessary facilities to provide a seamless pilgrimage experience.
Mann said the state will arrange and provide various facilities, including e-rickshaws, mini-buses, shuttle buses, and other public transport services. The goal is to ensure that devotees arriving from across the world do not face any inconvenience.
The original resolution was moved by CM Mann himself during a special session of the Punjab Assembly. This session was uniquely convened in Anandpur Sahib to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, underscoring the spiritual and historical significance of the location for the decision.
This administrative action transforms the commercial and social landscape of these cities, aligning their civic regulations with their exalted status as major global centres of Sikh faith and heritage.
