Archive · 22 Dec 2025
Punjab Declares Three Cities as Holy
The Punjab government has declared three cities as holy cities: Amritsar Walled City, Talwandi Sabo, and Sri Anandpur Sahib.
These cities are home to important Sikh religious sites called 'takhts'.
The government has banned the sale of meat, alcohol, tobacco, and other intoxicants in these cities to keep them holy.
They will also provide better transport like e-rickshaws and buses for visitors.
The chief minister said these cities are very important for Sikh religion and culture.
The ban started after a government notification was issued on December 15, 2025.
Punjab government has declared Amritsar Walled City, Talwandi Sabo, and Sri Anandpur Sahib as holy cities.
The decision was made to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur.
The government has banned the sale of meat, alcohol, tobacco, and intoxicants in these cities.
Transport facilities like e-rickshaws and buses will be provided for devotees.
The notification was issued on December 15, 2025, and the ban is now in effect.
- Who
- Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann
- What
- Ban on meat, alcohol, tobacco, and intoxicants in three holy cities
- When
- Notification issued on December 15, 2025, came into effect immediately
- Where
- Amritsar Walled City, Talwandi Sabo, Sri Anandpur Sahib
- Why
- To accord holy city status and preserve cultural heritage
Government
Citizens
Ban on Prohibited Items
Government
The government believes the ban is necessary to preserve the sanctity and cultural heritage of the holy cities.
Citizens
Some citizens may find the ban restrictive and potentially impact local businesses.
- Cities
- Amritsar Walled City, Talwandi Sabo, Sri Anandpur Sahib
- Prohibited Items
- Meat, alcohol, tobacco, intoxicants
- Date of Notification
- December 15, 2025
- Transport Facilities
- E-rickshaws, mini-buses, shuttle buses
- Takhts in Punjab
- Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Sri Damdama Sahib, Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib
Sources
Meat, alcohol ban at three ‘holy cities’ now in effect: Punjab CM Mann
Punjab government enforces ban on meat, alcohol and tobacco in three ‘holy cities’ - Telegraph India
Punjab officially notifies Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo as holy cities
Meat, Alcohol, Tobacco Banned In 3 Holy Cities In Punjab
