The ongoing protest against Himachal Pradesh’s entry tax on vehicles is poised to enter a critical phase, with Nihang Sikhs and Sangarsh Morcha representatives scheduled to convene on June 15. This meeting will determine their subsequent actions following the expiration of a 10-day ultimatum issued to the Punjab and Himachal governments.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the deadline, established after a symbolic protest earlier this month, concludes on June 15. Sources indicate that the agitation could escalate with coordinated actions at multiple points along the Punjab-Himachal border, should the state governments fail to implement tangible measures to address the issue.
The movement gained significant visibility on June 3 when Nihang Sikhs implemented a symbolic “khalsa tax” on vehicles registered in Himachal Pradesh. This action took place on the Kiratpur Sahib-Manali highway and was presented by the protesters as a direct response to the entry tax levied on Punjab residents entering Himachal. During this symbolic exercise, owners of Himachal-registered vehicles were invited to contribute voluntarily.
Leaders spearheading the agitation have now suggested that the upcoming phase of their protest might extend beyond symbolic gestures. According to sources close to the Sangarsh Morcha, a segment of its members is advocating for direct action targeting leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab. These proponents of intensified action argue that the state government has not adequately supported their cause.
Gaurav Rana, a prominent leader of the Sangarsh Morcha, confirmed the convened meeting on June 15, stating its purpose is to finalise the group’s strategy. “Some leaders are proposing to target ruling party leaders for their failure to support the people of the state. However, the future course of action will be decided only after the June 15 meeting,” Rana informed the press.
Paramjit Singh Pamma, another key figure in the agitation, strongly criticised the Punjab government, accusing it of not standing in solidarity with the individuals impacted by Himachal Pradesh’s entry tax policy. Pamma highlighted a resolution passed by the Nangal Municipal Council, which sought the imposition of a reciprocal tax on Himachal-registered vehicles. He stated that this resolution has been awaiting approval from the Directorate of Local Government for nearly a year.
“The resolution was passed on June 9, 2025, but the Punjab government has not yet approved it,” Pamma stated, underscoring the perceived inaction from the state administration. He further pointed out that the Local Government Department falls under the purview of Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains. Minister Bains represents the Anandpur Sahib constituency, which is considered the epicentre of the protest against Himachal Pradesh’s entry tax.
“The minister must clarify his position. He needs to inform the public whether he stands with them on this matter or not,” Pamma added, demanding a clear stance from the minister.
In response to the growing criticism, Harjot Singh Bains stated that the matter is currently under government consideration. He expressed optimism that the issue would be resolved through constructive dialogue between the two states involved.
Dinesh Chadha, an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA representing Rupnagar, defended his involvement, asserting that he has consistently advocated for the resolution of this issue. “I have been raising my voice against Himachal’s entry tax and have brought it up in the Punjab Assembly. The issue is under consideration, and I am hopeful that a solution will be found,” Chadha commented.
The entry tax imposed by Himachal Pradesh continues to be a contentious issue, particularly in the border areas of Punjab, specifically the Anandpur Sahib-Nangal belt. Residents, traders, and transporters in this region have repeatedly voiced concerns regarding the financial strain imposed by the tax on individuals who frequently travel to Himachal Pradesh.
The Chenab Times News Desk