Punjab has accorded holy city status to three major religious centres, Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo, following approval by the state Governor. The decision, taken by the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, was earlier announced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann during a special Assembly session held in Sri Anandpur Sahib.
With the new status, the state government has cleared a proposal to impose a complete ban on the sale and consumption of intoxicants, including alcohol, tobacco and non-vegetarian food, within the limits of these three cities, often referred to as the seats of the Sikh Takhts.
The government said the move fulfils a long-pending demand of the Sikh Sangat and is aimed at preserving the religious sanctity and cultural character of these historic towns. Special schemes will be rolled out to strengthen cleanliness, security, development and religious tourism in the holy cities.
Officials said civic infrastructure will be upgraded, with improved crowd management, traffic regulation and beautification of heritage streets and religious corridors. Surveillance will be enhanced to curb illegal activities and maintain public order.
Under the new rules, the sale of liquor, meat, tobacco and other intoxicants will be prohibited. Events, posters or activities deemed offensive to religious sentiments will also be barred. Strict action will be taken against littering, unregulated parking and overcrowding. However, the government clarified that essential services will remain unaffected. Shops selling daily necessities such as fruits, vegetables, milk, grains and other essentials will continue to operate.
Religious programmes, movement of devotees and the normal daily routine of local residents will not face restrictions. The state government said the measures are intended to balance religious sanctity with everyday life while ensuring that the holy cities remain orderly, safe and respectful of their spiritual significance.
