Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
CM Sukhu reasserts Himachal’s 7.19% stake in Chandigarh, demands higher power royalty
Babushahi Bureau
Faridabad (Haryana), November 17, 2025: Himachal Pradesh has intensified its claim over a 7.19% share in the Union Territory of Chandigarh. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu raised the issue during the 32nd meeting of the Northern Zonal Council held in Faridabad on Monday under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
CM Sukhu asserted Himachal’s "legitimate right" to 7.19% of Chandigarh’s land and assets, citing provisions of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, and referencing a 2011 Supreme Court judgment.
According to the verdict, Himachal is entitled to a 7.19% share in the erstwhile joint Punjab based on population ratio — a proportion that also determines its rightful share of electricity produced by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).
The Chief Minister demanded the release of BBMB’s pending dues to the state and the appointment of a permanent member from Himachal in the board.
He also pressed for implementation of the policy granting states 12% free power royalty from Central hydropower projects, while urging the Centre to increase the royalty to 50% for projects where costs have already been recovered.
Sukhu requested that Himachal’s share issue be included in the agenda of the next Northern Zonal Council meeting and reiterated the demand for handing over 40-year-old hydropower projects to the state.
He further sought full central funding for the power components of the under-construction Kishau and Renuka Dam projects, along with a 50–50 electricity allocation between Himachal and Uttarakhand upon their completion.
Highlighting the vulnerability of Himalayan states to climate-induced disasters, Sukhu called for a review of disaster relief norms and the formulation of an integrated sustainable development plan. He urged the Centre to provide special assistance, given the region’s fragile geography.
Emphasising the need for better air connectivity, the Chief Minister informed the Council about the proposed expansion of Kangra Airport and requested full central funding, including land acquisition costs.
Sukhu also proposed setting up a high-altitude research centre, an ice hockey stadium, and an adventure sports centre in Himachal’s border areas.
The Chief Minister outlined the state's multi-pronged action against drug trafficking, rehabilitation efforts for affected individuals, and Himachal’s zero-tolerance approach under child protection laws.
Sukhu also urged a speedy resolution of the inter-state boundary disputes with Ladakh in the Sarchu and Shinkula regions. Additionally, he appealed for permission for residential construction on forest land and sought financial assistance for the rehabilitation of disaster-affected families.