Amritsar: Samaj Sudhar Sanstha Punjab has announced that it will honour Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and the Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar with gold medals for implementing the 'holy city' status in letter and spirit. The announcement follows a series of actions by the district administration, including the sealing of meat, fish, tobacco and related shops within the walled city.
Recognition for Decisive Action
Sanstha Punjab president Ranjit Singh Bhoma said on Sunday that the recognition is meant to acknowledge both the policy decision at the state level and its strict execution on the ground. 'For nearly 15 years, we have been raising this demand. It is for the first time that a government has not only announced but also acted decisively,' he said, adding that the decision was taken following consultations with the Samaj Sudhar Sanstha and other like-minded bodies.
Turning Point in Enforcement
The Amritsar Municipal Corporation in the recent past shut down and sealed the long-operational fish market near Hall Gate, a move seen as a turning point in enforcing restrictions that had remained largely on paper for years. 'It was a most appreciative move by the Amritsar Municipal Corporation to seal the fish market situated inside the Hall Gate, and we hope that it will continue to do its job till all the meat, tobacco and liquor vends are shifted outside the four walls,' Bhoma added.
Notably, the Punjab government on December 15, 2025, issued a notification declaring the prohibition of the sale of meat, fish, tobacco and liquor in the walled city of Amritsar.
Resistance and Continued Action
The recent enforcement drive, however, has not been without resistance. Traders affected by the closures have protested, citing loss of livelihood and lack of alternative arrangements. Despite this, the administration has continued its operation, sealing multiple shops. Bhoma further urged the district administration to expand the initiative by closing remaining liquor vends in Chowk Maha Singh.
