Punjab Declares Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo 'Holy Cities'

• Punjab government officially declared Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo as 'Holy Cities' following decades of demand from the Sikh community.
• These cities were chosen for their profound religious and historical significance, housing three of Sikhism's five 'Takhts' and being central to Guru Sahibans' lives.
• The declaration imposes a complete ban on the sale and public consumption of alcohol, meat, tobacco, and other intoxicants within municipal limits.
• It will lead to planned development as 'Heritage Cities', improved infrastructure, enhanced security, and promotion of religious tourism with new transport facilities.
• The decision aims to preserve religious dignity, cultural heritage, and social discipline, though its social, economic, and legal implications are subject to debate.

Why It Matters: Punjab's 'Holy City' declaration for three key Sikh sites bans intoxicants and boosts heritage tourism.