Punjab and Haryana HC Seeks UNESCO Clearance and Alternative Plan for Chandigarh Court Expansion

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed the Chandigarh administration to expedite UNESCO clearance for expanding the high court complex, while also preparing an alternative plan if approval is denied. The court questioned the value of retaining the site's World Heritage status due to procedural constraints, with some officials and lawyers describing the process as restrictive. The expansion aims to address space shortages, but must comply with heritage impact assessments and international regulations.