Chandigarh | Punjab
In a major decision with long-term social and administrative implications, the Punjab government has officially declared Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo as holy cities, giving district administrations the authority to regulate activities considered incompatible with their religious sanctity.
The decision provides legal backing to long-standing demands raised by Sikh religious bodies and local communities, particularly in areas surrounding major gurdwaras that witness heavy daily footfall of pilgrims from India and abroad.
According to an official notification issued by the Department of Home Affairs, Government of Punjab, dated December 15, 2025, the declaration applies to:
- The walled city of Amritsar
- The municipal limits of Sri Anandpur Sahib (Rupnagar district)
- The municipal limits of Talwandi Sabo (Sri Damdama Sahib), Bathinda district
The notification has been signed by Additional Chief Secretary (Home Affairs) Alok Shekhar.
Officials said the holy city status will allow authorities to enforce uniform and legally backed restrictions, instead of ad-hoc or uneven enforcement that often led to confusion and disputes in the past.
The government is expected to issue district-level implementation orders to clearly define restricted zones, exemptions and penalties.