Chandigarh Administration Stands Firm on CMP-2031 Regulations

The Chandigarh administration remains steadfast in its commitment to the Chandigarh Master Plan 2031 (CMP-2031), despite recent requests from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for documentation and discussions on core issues affecting the city. Officials indicate that major relaxations for residents and industrialists are unlikely, as they prioritize maintaining the city’s core character and essence.

Officials from the Chandigarh administration emphasized that adherence to the CMP-2031 is non-negotiable. This plan has already received approval from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the central government. The administration has prepared a detailed presentation outlining the key aspects of CMP-2031, which Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other MHA officials will review.

The administration’s stance against converting leasehold properties into freehold is primarily driven by financial concerns. Officials argue that given the significant value of these properties, such a conversion could negatively impact the Union Territory’s financial health. Additionally, the administration cited a Supreme Court order that prohibits the floor-wise registration of houses, asserting that there is no room for alteration in this policy.

While the administration may consider some flexibility regarding the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for certain sectors, particularly the third phase of development, this will only occur after consultations with the MHA. A senior officer noted, “In our view, CMP-2031 is the core and most crucial aspect, and thus we are bound to follow it strictly.” They further stressed that managing the city’s growth is challenging and that not all demands from residents can be accommodated.

Political parties, notably the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress, have long campaigned on these issues in parliamentary and municipal elections. Despite repeated assurances in their manifestos, both parties have struggled to deliver solutions over the past two decades. The ongoing discussions around CMP-2031 illustrate the enduring complexity of urban planning and governance in Chandigarh.

The Chandigarh administration’s firm position highlights the delicate balance between urban development and preserving the city’s unique identity. As the situation develops, the MHA will play a critical role in determining how these regulations will evolve in response to both administrative priorities and public demands.