Chandigarh, November 15
A delegation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Punjab’s Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, today submitted a memorandum to the Governor of Punjab, Gulab Chand Kataria, registering their strong opposition to the Haryana government’s proposal to set up a Legislative Assembly complex in Chandigarh. The memorandum was handed over by the delegation, which also included Minister Harjot Singh Bains, AAP leaders Deepak Bali and Parminder Singh Goldy.
In a press briefing outside the Governor House, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated that the matter was of immense importance for Punjab and its rightful claim over Chandigarh. He said that Chandigarh is the capital of Punjab and belongs solely to the state, and the AAP government is firmly opposed to any attempt to allot land in the city for the construction of Haryana’s Legislative Assembly.
"Chandigarh is Punjab’s capital, and no other state has the right to build its legislature here," said Harpal Singh Cheema. "The Haryana government has sought 10 acres of land in Chandigarh in exchange for 12 acres in Panchkula. This proposal is part of their clear agenda to establish their assembly complex in Chandigarh. AAP strongly opposes this move and will not allow even an inch of Chandigarh to be given to Haryana."
Cheema further pointed out that previous governments had failed to safeguard Punjab’s interests regarding Chandigarh. He reminded that when Punjab and Haryana were created, it was clearly understood that Haryana would establish its own capital in Panchkula, and not in Chandigarh. He stressed that Haryana should build its Legislative Assembly in Panchkula.
The AAP delegation also expressed concern that the previous state governments had failed to take a firm stand on this issue, allowing the situation to become more complex over time. "We will not allow any further erosion of Punjab's rights. Punjab is a state known for its sacrifices for the nation, and we will continue to fight for what is rightfully ours," Cheema added.
The AAP also made it clear that they would continue to pursue this issue with utmost seriousness and commitment, ensuring that the voice of Punjab is heard loud and clear. "We will not back down. We will fight for our rights and ensure that Chandigarh remains the undivided capital of Punjab," said Harpal Singh Cheema in his concluding remarks.
The AAP delegation’s memorandum outlines the party’s firm stance that no land in Chandigarh should be allotted to Haryana, reaffirming that the city remains an integral part of Punjab.