The Punjab Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution declaring three locations in the state as holy cities, imposing a complete ban on the sale and consumption of liquor, meat, tobacco and other intoxicants in these areas.
Which Cities Are Now Declared Holy?
- The Punjab government has granted holy-city status to:
- Anandpur Sahib (Rupnagar district)
- Talwandi Sabo (Bathinda district)
- Galiara area around the Golden Temple (Amritsar)
The resolution was moved by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann during a special Assembly session held in Anandpur Sahib to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur—the first Vidhan Sabha session ever conducted outside Chandigarh.
Why the Ban?
According to the resolution, these places hold deep spiritual and cultural significance. With three of Sikhism’s five Takhts located in these regions—Akal Takht Sahib (Amritsar), Damdama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo) and Keshgarh Sahib (Anandpur Sahib)—the government said the decision reflects long-pending public demand.
CM Bhagwant Mann said the move honours Sikh heritage and will help preserve and promote Punjab’s cultural identity globally.
What’s Next?
The state government plans to undertake holistic development of these holy cities and boost religious tourism. Events commemorating Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th martyrdom anniversary began on November 23 and continue through November 25.