Punjab Government's District Decision Hangs in Balance
Two months after initially considering the creation of Anandpur Sahib as Punjab's 24th district, the state government remains undecided on the crucial matter. The delay comes despite earlier plans to announce the new district ahead of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur.
The historical and spiritual significance of Anandpur Sahib cannot be overstated. Currently part of Rupnagar district, this sacred city represents the very birthplace of the Khalsa and stands as a cornerstone of Sikh heritage. The proposed elevation to district status has been strongly advocated by Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, who also serves as the MLA from Anandpur Sahib Assembly segment.
Protests and Practical Challenges Emerge
Meanwhile, significant opposition has surfaced regarding the proposed boundaries of the new district. On Thursday, Bar Associations of Garhshankar, along with local chamber of commerce members, organized a protest march from the Court Complex to Anandpur Sahib Road. Demonstrators voiced strong objections to the potential inclusion of Garhshankar in the proposed Sri Anandpur Sahib district.
Protesters carried banners and shouted slogans including "Stop dividing Garhshankar" and "Long live public unity." The movement gained substantial traction with a half-day market closure call that saw widespread compliance, as shops remained shut throughout Garhshankar in solidarity with the cause.
Local residents argue that Garhshankar maintains stronger cultural and geographical connections with Hoshiarpur district. They expressed concerns that merging with Anandpur Sahib would create significant inconvenience for the population, who have historical ties to their current administrative setup.
Infrastructure and Financial Concerns Loom Large
Government officials have raised practical concerns about the district creation process. The Punjab High Court recently criticized the administration for failing to provide adequate infrastructure in Malerkotla, which became the state's 23rd district four years ago. This precedent has made authorities cautious about announcing another district without proper planning.
The financial implications present another major hurdle. Preliminary estimates suggest that establishing the new district headquarters and supporting offices would require approximately Rs 500 crore. Additionally, the monthly salary expenditure for officials and employees posted at the new district headquarters is projected to cost around Rs 18 crore per month.
An official familiar with the matter revealed that during last week's Cabinet meeting, members decided to focus exclusively on paying tributes to Guru Tegh Bahadur during the special session of the Vidhan Sabha. "We do not know what will happen during the special session in Anandpur Sahib on November 24. All eyes will be on Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's address to the Assembly," the official stated, while acknowledging that "a new district seems like a long call."
The political landscape remains uncertain as the government balances historical significance, public sentiment, and practical administrative considerations. With Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains unavailable for comment, the future of Anandpur Sahib's district status continues to hang in the balance, awaiting decisive action from the Punjab government.
