Archive · 20 Jan 2026
Chandigarh Transfer Discussions and Indo-Pak Talks
Forty years ago, on January 19, 1986, there were important discussions about transferring the city of Chandigarh to Punjab.
The language survey in 54 villages was completed with the help of security forces.
Meanwhile, India and Pakistan talked about not attacking each other's nuclear sites and addressed concerns about terrorism.
The Soviet Union also announced plans to eliminate all nuclear weapons within 15 years, though they acknowledged that agreements with the US would be difficult.
Discussions between Union Home Ministry and Punjab government officials about the transfer of Chandigarh to Punjab on January 26, 1986.
Completion of a language survey in 54 villages of Fazilka and Muktsar tehsils with security provided by Assam Rifles and Punjab Police.
India and Pakistan exchanged draft agreements to not attack each other's nuclear installations, with India raising concerns about terrorism in Punjab.
The Soviet Union announced plans to eliminate all nuclear arms within 15 years but noted that agreements with the US would be challenging.
Rechecking of the language survey was completed in the village of Bazidpur, where a potential clash was prevented by state government officials.
- Who
- Union Home Ministry, Punjab government officials, India and Pakistan, Soviet Union
- What
- Discussions on Chandigarh transfer, Indo-Pak talks, Soviet disarmament plan
- When
- January 19, 1986
- Where
- Chandigarh, India, Pakistan, USSR
- Why
- To finalize arrangements for Chandigarh transfer, address nuclear and terrorism concerns, and plan for disarmament
- Date of Transfer
- January 26, 1986
- Villages Surveyed
- 54 villages in Fazilka and Muktsar tehsils
- Security During Survey
- Assam Rifles and Punjab Police
- Indo-Pak Talks Focus
- Nuclear installations and terrorism in Punjab
- Soviet Disarmament Plan
- Liquidation of all nuclear arms within 15 years
