Punjab Declares Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo Holy Cities

The Punjab government has formally declared the walled city of Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib in Rupnagar district, and Talwandi Sabo (Sri Damdama Sahib) in Bathinda district as Holy Cities. The move aims to preserve their religious sanctity and cultural character through legally enforceable restrictions. The decision was notified by the Department of Home Affairs after receiving approval from the Governor of Punjab.

Official Notification and Legal Backing

The declaration has been issued through an official notification signed by Additional Chief Secretary (Home Affairs) Alok Shekhar. It mandates coordinated action by multiple state departments to ensure strict compliance within the notified municipal limits. The notification will be published in the official Gazette of Punjab, giving it statutory force.

Restrictions on Liquor, Tobacco and Intoxicants

Under the new framework, the Department of Excise has been directed to restrict the sale and consumption of liquor and related products in all three holy cities. Simultaneously, the Department of Health and Family Welfare has been instructed to issue prohibitory orders against the sale and use of cigarettes, tobacco and other intoxicants. These measures are intended to align public conduct with the religious ethos of the sacred Sikh sites.

Ban on Meat and Local Enforcement

The Department of Animal Husbandry has been requested to impose a ban on the sale and consumption of meat within the notified areas. The Department of Local Government, along with the Deputy Commissioners of Amritsar, Rupnagar and Bathinda, has been tasked with on-ground enforcement. Local administrations will oversee inspections, compliance and implementation to prevent violations.

What to Note for Exams?

• Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo are major Sikh religious centres.
• The notification was issued by Punjab’s Department of Home Affairs.
• Restrictions include liquor, tobacco, intoxicants and meat.
• The decision has the approval of the Governor of Punjab.

Link with Heritage Development Plans

The decision is consistent with earlier statements by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who announced plans to develop Sri Anandpur Sahib as a heritage street city. The announcement followed a special session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly held in Anandpur Sahib during the 350th martyrdom anniversary commemorations of Guru Tegh Bahadur. The government has emphasised collective responsibility in maintaining the spiritual and historical sanctity of these cities.