The North News
Chandigarh, December 22
The Punjab government has formally notified Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo as holy cities, a move Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann described as long overdue and of deep spiritual significance. In a video address to the people of Punjab, Mann said the notification marked “a moment of gratitude, humility and responsibility”. The announcement was made earlier this month from Sri Anandpur Sahib during a state-level event commemorating the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur.
Explaining the rationale, the Chief Minister noted that three of Sikhism’s five Takhts are located in Punjab — Sri Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Sri Anandpur Sahib and Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo.
“The cities associated with these Takhts have now officially been recognised as centres of faith and holy cities,” he said. The government has pledged comprehensive development of all three locations, with an emphasis on pilgrim-friendly infrastructure. The government plans to expand public transport options, including e-rickshaws and mini-buses, to ease movement for devotees arriving from India and abroad.
Chief Minister Mann also announced strict regulations aimed at preserving the sanctity of the holy cities. The sale of meat, alcohol, tobacco and other intoxicants will be completely prohibited within their limits. “These cities are not only religious centres but powerful symbols of our cultural heritage,” the Chief Minister said, adding that the state would “leave no stone unturned” to ensure world-class facilities in the walled city of Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Sri Damdama Sahib.
The notification, issued on December 15, formally accords special status to the three cities in recognition of their historic, spiritual and global significance for the Sikh community.
