The declaration of Amritsar City as a ‘Holy City’ has been challenged in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The petition specifically contests the restrictions imposed on the sale of fish, meat, and raw meat products. The High Court has sought a response from the Punjab government and other respondents regarding the petition.
The Court has asked why a stay should not be granted on the notification and the consequential orders issued in connection with it. The petition has been filed by Kuldeep Fish Company, which holds a valid license issued by the Amritsar Municipal Corporation. The company has challenged the Punjab government’s notification dated December 15, 2025.
Senior Advocate Vikas Chatrath apprised the High Court that the company has been engaged in the trade of fish and meat for several years under a valid license. It has been regularly depositing license fees and other statutory dues. Following the implementation of the notification, the company’s business establishment was sealed, and proceedings have been initiated against it. This action was taken without any statutory order or clear legal authority.
As a result of the impugned notification, a complete ban has been imposed on the trade of fish and meat within the ‘Walled City’ area. This ban has been enforced without any accompanying rehabilitation policy; furthermore, no alternative relocation arrangements have been provided. The traders were not granted adequate time to adjust, which has had a severe adverse impact on their livelihoods. This action constitutes a violation of the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution—specifically the rights to trade, business, life, livelihood, and equality.
The petitioner argued that any restriction on fundamental rights can only be imposed if it is grounded in a clear statutory basis. Moreover, such a restriction must be both reasonable and proportionate. Terms such as ‘Holy City’ and ‘Walled City’ are not defined within any existing statute. This contentious measure disproportionately affects only those traders conducting business within the Walled City area, yet it lacks any logical or statutory justification. The petitioner has sought permission to continue operating their lawful business.
