Chandigarh’s Shift Toward Article 240? Signs Suggest a Major Governance Transition Ahead
Chandigarh is gradually shifting toward Article 240 governance with Central service rules, AGMUT cadre appointments, and increased Union involvement. Here's what it means.
Chandigarh administration building as governance reforms raise questions about the city’s shift toward Article 240.
Chandigarh seems to be steadily moving toward a governance structure under Article 240 of the Constitution, with significant administrative shifts already visible over the past three years. From adopting Central service rules to expanding the role of AGMUT cadre officers, the city’s governance landscape is transforming in line with Union Territory administration norms.
Central Service Rules Replace Punjab Rules
A major turning point came in 2022 when Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that Central Civil Service Rules would replace Punjab Service Rules for all Chandigarh Administration employees.
Under the revised structure:
Employees now receive pay scales as per Central rules
Retirement age increased from 58 to 60 years
Women employees now benefit from two years of child care leave instead of one
Notably, Chandigarh previously followed Central service rules until 1991 before shifting to Punjab rules due to local protests and demands.
Key Administrative Roles Moving to AGMUT Cadre
Another significant change is the gradual but consistent transfer of key bureaucratic posts to officers from the AGMUT cadre.
Examples include:
- AGMUT officer Hari Kallikkat taking charge as MD of CITCO
- Health Department now led by AGMUT officer Ajay Chagti
- Multiple Assistant Estate Officer posts held by UT cadre officers, instead of Haryana Civil Service
Even top administrative designations have been restructured. This year, the Adviser to the Administrator — the seniormost IAS officer — was redesignated as Chief Secretary, strengthening UT governance alignment.
Increased Central Engagement in Chandigarh Affairs
Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s repeated visits to the city to launch major projects and pilot initiatives — including the rollout of new criminal laws — reflect deeper Central involvement.
Observers believe these actions indicate a broader transition toward the governance model envisioned under Article 240, where the President holds greater legislative authority over Union Territories without legislatures.
Concerns Over Local Representation
Despite the administrative strengthening, resident bodies insist that governance reforms must empower elected representatives.
Vinod Vashisht, Convenor of City Forum of Residents Welfare Organisations (CFORWO), stressed the need to bolster democratic participation:
“Chandigarh is a UT without a legislature. The city needs more people-powered governance, including a five-year mayoral term and expanded powers for the Municipal Corporation.”
As Chandigarh’s administrative structure evolves, the debate continues — should the city move fully under Article 240, and what does this change truly mean for democratic decision-making?
