Is AAP Set to Challenge the Proposed Constitution Amendment Bill?
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Synopsis
The Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab is gearing up to oppose the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill proposed by the central government, which they believe undermines Punjab's interests. With strong statements from party leaders, the AAP aims to protect Chandigarh's rights and maintain Punjab's dignity.
Key Takeaways
- AAP Punjab strongly opposes the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill.
- The amendment threatens Punjab's rights over Chandigarh.
- Baltej Pannu asserts that AAP will fight against this legislative move.
- The amendment could centralize control over Chandigarh.
- Historical grievances regarding Punjab's rights are being revived.
Chandigarh, Nov 22 (NationPress) The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab expressed strong opposition on Saturday to the proposed Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill that the central government plans to introduce in the forthcoming winter session of Parliament. AAP Punjab State General Secretary Baltej Pannu stated that this amendment is entirely detrimental to the interests of Punjab.
Pannu cautioned that the Aam Aadmi Party will not permit this plot contrived by the Centre against Punjab to succeed under any circumstances. He leveled serious accusations against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), questioning the nature of animosity the BJP-led Central government harbors towards Punjab.
According to him, each day the central government seems intent on testing the self-respect of Punjab and its residents.
Referencing previous incidents, he noted that whether it was the attempt to forcibly seize control of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) for water management, or the recent notifications linked to the Panjab University dispute that have spurred ongoing student protests.
Pannu further pointed out that a new matter has emerged, with an amendment to Article 240 being introduced in the upcoming parliamentary session.
This amendment would transfer all powers and governance of Chandigarh, currently a Union Territory, directly under the President of India.
This would imply that Punjab’s rights over Chandigarh would be completely nullified.
Pannu firmly asserted that Chandigarh is a city established by displacing villages from Punjab, and thus belongs exclusively to Punjab.
Post-amendment, Chandigarh would be administered like Union Territories such as Andaman-Nicobar or Puducherry, with governance solely under the President. Pannu emphasized that Punjab has persistently fought for its rights and will not cease in the future.
He assured that the Aam Aadmi Party and Punjab's Bhagwant Mann government will vehemently oppose this initiative.
He stated, "We will not permit our rights to be diminished, and we will staunchly resist any amendment to Article 240. Whatever tough measures we must adopt, we will undertake them."
Point of View
The Aam Aadmi Party's strong opposition to the proposed Constitution amendment highlights the ongoing tensions between regional rights and central authority. This development could resonate beyond Punjab, as similar issues may arise in other states, thus impacting national governance dynamics.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill?
The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill is a proposed legislation by the central government that aims to amend certain articles of the Constitution, which has raised concerns among various political parties, especially in Punjab.
Why is AAP opposing this amendment?
AAP opposes the amendment because they believe it undermines Punjab's rights over Chandigarh and increases central control over the Union Territory.
What are the implications of this amendment for Chandigarh?
If passed, the amendment would place all powers of Chandigarh under the President of India, effectively eliminating Punjab's claims and rights over the city.
What actions will AAP take against this amendment?
The Aam Aadmi Party has pledged to strongly resist the amendment, asserting that they will take all necessary measures to protect Punjab's interests.
Who is Baltej Pannu?
Baltej Pannu is the Punjab State General Secretary of the Aam Aadmi Party and is leading the opposition against the proposed amendment.
