✔ The Punjab government has officially notified Amritsar (Walled City), Sri Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo as Holy Cities.
✔ This declaration aligns with the 350th Martyrdom Day commemorations of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur
✔ It aims to preserve the sanctity of these religious centres.
● Takhts of Sikhism:
✔ "Takht" in Persian means an imperial throne.
✔ These cities house three of the five temporal seats (Takhts) of Sikhism:
o Akal Takht (Amritsar)à considered as the supreme among the five, was set up in 1606 by Guru Hargobind.
o Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib (Anandpur Sahib)
o Takht Sri Damdama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo)
✔ The Takht Patna Sahib is in Bihar, and the Takht Hazur Sahib is in Nanded, Maharashtra.
✔ The move recognizes these cities not just as religious centres but as pivotal symbols of Punjab's cultural and spiritual heritage.
● Key Regulations and Prohibitions:
✔ The notification mandates a complete ban on the sale and consumption of meat, alcohol, tobacco, and other intoxicants within the notified municipal limits/walled areas.
✔ There is the introduction of e-rickshaws and mini-buses to facilitate devotee movement.
● Key Issues and Controversies:
✔ Concerns have been raised regarding the ban's impact on Jhatka meat
o This is traditionally consumed by Nihang Sikhs and is distinct from Kutha (Halal) meat.
✔ The prohibition affects small shopkeepers and businesses dealing in now-banned goods, raising questions about rehabilitation policies.
