Chandigarh: The Punjab government has formally notified its decision to grant ‘Holy City’ status to three of the state’s most significant religious cities, giving legal effect to an announcement made earlier by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The official notification has now come into force, the Chief Minister said in a post on social media.
The decision was first announced during the 350th martyrdom anniversary celebrations of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Sri Anandpur Sahib. Calling it a historic step, Mann said he was grateful for the opportunity to take such an important decision connected with Sikh faith and heritage.
The three cities accorded the special status are home to three of the five Sikh Takhts — Sri Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo, and Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Sri Anandpur Sahib. With the notification, these cities have now been officially recognised as sacred centres of faith.
The Chief Minister said the government would ensure improved facilities for devotees visiting these holy towns. Special transport arrangements, including e-rickshaws, mini-buses and shuttle bus services, will be introduced to facilitate smooth movement of pilgrims and reduce inconvenience.
As part of the ‘Holy City’ framework, the sale of meat, liquor, tobacco and other intoxicants will be completely banned within the designated areas. Mann said the move aims to preserve the sanctity, spiritual environment and religious decorum of these sacred places.
Assuring that the new status would not hinder progress, the Chief Minister said the government remains committed to the overall development of all three cities. He added that these towns are not only religious landmarks but also vital centres of Punjab’s cultural heritage.
Congratulating the Sikh community, Mann said the decision was long overdue and described it as a step towards honouring the spiritual legacy of Sikhism while ensuring respectful and sustainable development.
