10 March 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : Senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia has strongly criticized Bhagwant Mann, accusing the Punjab Chief Minister of compromising the state’s long-standing claim over Chandigarh. The remark has sparked a fresh political debate over the issue, which has remained a sensitive matter between Punjab and Haryana for decades.
Majithia alleged that Mann had effectively “bowed his knees” on Punjab’s demand regarding Chandigarh during recent political developments and discussions. According to him, the state government should take a firm stance to protect Punjab’s rights over the shared capital.
Chandigarh currently serves as the joint capital of both Punjab and Haryana, as well as a **Union Territory of Chandigarh administered by the central government. The issue dates back to the reorganization of Punjab in 1966 when Haryana was carved out as a separate state. Since then, the question of which state should have full control over Chandigarh has remained unresolved.
Majithia said that successive governments in Punjab have consistently maintained that Chandigarh rightfully belongs to the state. He argued that the present government must continue to pursue this claim with determination instead of making compromises.
The Akali leader also accused the state government of failing to protect Punjab’s interests on key administrative and political matters. He said the people of Punjab expect their leadership to defend the state’s rights and historical claims with clarity and strength.
Meanwhile, leaders from the ruling Aam Aadmi Party have dismissed the allegations, saying the government remains committed to protecting Punjab’s interests. Party representatives said that the state leadership is actively working on various issues related to Punjab’s rights, including the Chandigarh matter.
Political observers say that the issue of Chandigarh often resurfaces during political debates in the region. Because the city serves as the capital for both states, it holds administrative, economic, and symbolic importance for Punjab and Haryana.
Apart from political discussions, the dispute has also been connected to matters such as government offices, employee allocations, and administrative control between the two states. These issues have occasionally led to tensions and demands for clearer solutions.
Experts say resolving the Chandigarh question requires coordination between the state governments and the central government, as the city currently functions as a Union Territory under federal administration.
The latest remarks from Majithia highlight how the Chandigarh issue continues to influence regional politics in Punjab. With political parties often using the topic to criticize their opponents, the debate is likely to remain a key talking point in the state’s political landscape.
For now, the controversy has once again brought attention to one of the longest-standing administrative and political disputes in northern India.
Summary:
Bikram Singh Majithia accused Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of weakening Punjab’s claim over Chandigarh, sparking renewed political debate over the long-standing dispute between Punjab and Haryana.