Punjab’s AAP govt has declared Amritsar’s Walled City a ‘Holy City’
AMRITSAR: A decision by Punjab’s AAP govt to declare Amritsar’s Walled City a ‘Holy City’ with a ban on fish, meat and tobacco sales has triggered deep anxiety among hundreds of families whose livelihoods depend on their trade. Walled City is the zone around the Golden Temple.CM Bhagwant Mann announced the “historic decision” in a Dec 21 video message, designating Shri Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo (Bathinda) and the Walled City of Amritsar as ‘holy’ cities.While the move has been projected as an effort to preserve the sanctity of the area surrounding the Golden Temple, those at the receiving end say it threatens to wipe out generations-old businesses without offering any alternative.Rajinder Kumar, a fourth-generation fish trader operating inside Hall Gate, paints a grim picture. “There are 18 suppliers. This was the first wholesale fish market of Punjab and supplies fish to various districts even today. With one order, generations of hard work is being erased,” Kumar said, adding each shop employs over 40 workers.Manmohan Singh, owner of an eatery inside BK Dutt Gate, questioned the logic behind declaring the entire Walled City a ‘Holy City’. “There was already a Galliara around Golden Temple, where such restrictions are followed. Why extend it to the whole Walled City? We have not been given any alternative. Amritsar is not only a religious city. It is also known worldwide for its food,” Singh said, adding traders were not consulted before the decision.Representatives of the hospitality sector, while welcoming the sentiment behind the decision, acknowledged its uneven impact. AK Chattha, president of Amritsar Hotel and Restaurant Association, said meat, fish and tobacco sellers would bear the brunt, not hotels. “Hotels can bring meat from outside and adjust their menus. But this decision may instead increase illegal trade and corruption,” he cautioned.BJP functionary Jagmohan Singh Raju demanded a comprehensive rehabilitation policy. “Declaring Sri Amritsar a holy city is a historic step, but it must be implemented with foresight. Sanctity cannot come at the cost of livelihoods. Rehabilitation is not a concession – it is a responsibility,” Raju said in a letter to CM Mann.The governing AAP promised relief. “Govt will ensure proper rehabilitation. If businesses are removed, alternative arrangements will be made in a phased and planned manner. Authorities will consult those affected, engage with relevant institutions, and work out the best possible and mutually acceptable solution to ensure livelihoods are protected,” senior AAP functionary Baltej Pannu said.For small vendors like Moti Ram, who runs a pan-cigarette kiosk, the order has shattered any sense of security. “I have spent my entire life selling pan and cigarettes here. This sudden decision has pulled the ground from under my feet,” he said.The municipal corporation has identified around 150 meat, tobacco and liquor shops that would have to be relocated.
