Politics of Chandigarh, Political system in Chandigarh, India
Chandigarh operates as a union territory governed by an Administrator appointed by India's President, who holds executive authority over the city. The Municipal Corporation divides operations into three administrative sections and coordinates services through dedicated emergency contact centers.
The city became a union territory in 1966 following Punjab's division into two separate states that both needed a capital. This split shaped its governance model, which continues to reflect the compromise between two states sharing one city.
The shared capital status creates a distinctive political identity where residents feel pulled between two states' interests. This unusual arrangement shapes daily interactions with local governance in ways most other Indian cities do not experience.
The city is divided into three administrative sections, which can affect where you go for permits or services depending on your location. Emergency services have dedicated helplines available throughout the day for any urgent assistance you might need.
The city's Administrator also serves as Governor of Punjab, meaning one person oversees both the territory and a neighboring state. This unusual arrangement exists because of how the states were divided and the need to manage the shared capital.
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