Will Himachal Provide Water Only After Clearing BBMB Arrears?
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Synopsis
In a strong statement, Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu asserts that water supply to Delhi and Haryana hinges on the settlement of long-overdue BBMB arrears. This bold move highlights the pressing need for inter-state cooperation and accountability. Discover the implications of this demand and its potential impact on regional relations.
Key Takeaways
- Water supply to neighboring states is contingent on BBMB arrears payment.
- Himachal Pradesh government emphasizes accountability in inter-state relations.
- Significant reforms in education are underway.
- Support for families affected by natural disasters is a priority.
- New educational institutions are focused on providing adequate resources and staffing.
Shimla, May 28 (NationPress) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu stated on Wednesday that the state will supply water to Delhi and Haryana only if the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) clears the arrears that have been outstanding for 14 years.
While addressing a public gathering at Dehuri in the Banjar development block of Kullu district, he remarked: “I traveled to Delhi with the requests of the people of Himachal Pradesh. We are willing to provide water to Delhi and Haryana, but they must first settle the 14-year-old BBMB arrears owed to us.”
“I have made it clear that neighboring states need to file an affidavit in the Supreme Court to address the arrears before we proceed with the Kishau dam. My commitment is to the people of Himachal Pradesh, and I will not compromise their interests,” he added.
During his two-day visit, the Chief Minister also announced the launch of the Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding School, which will be affiliated with the CBSE, as well as a milk processing unit with a capacity of 10,000 liters in Banjar.
He emphasized that the government is implementing significant reforms in education and will continue these initiatives in the future.
Criticizing former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, he accused the BJP leader of distributing electoral handouts worth ₹5,000 crore to secure victory in the assembly elections.
“He established new institutions but deceived the populace by failing to provide adequate staff and facilities. He is to blame for the degradation of education in the state,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister stated: “Our focus is not on opening new educational institutions, but rather on hiring teachers in schools and enhancing facilities to ensure a better educational environment for children in rural areas. Our reforms include the establishment of the Directorate of School Education for classes 1 to 12, the introduction of English medium classes, and extensive future reforms in education.”
He added that those previously accused of corruption are now making baseless allegations against the current government to mislead the public.
“Now they have become the BJP's decision-makers, yet they should first address their own issues,” he stated.
During the natural disaster in 2023, BJP leaders failed to approach the Central government to advocate for the rights of affected families, whereas the Congress government supported the citizens.
“We modified the rules to assist rehabilitating the affected families, offered a special relief package, and increased compensation for completely damaged homes from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹7 lakh, while the compensation for partially damaged homes increased to ₹1 lakh,” concluded the Chief Minister.
Point of View
It’s essential to recognize the significance of Chief Minister Sukhu's stance on BBMB arrears. This issue is not merely about water supply but reflects a larger narrative of fiscal responsibility and inter-state cooperation. The ongoing attempts to reform education and support affected families underscore the administration's commitment to the welfare of Himachal Pradesh, making this an important moment for public policy.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the BBMB arrears?
The BBMB arrears refer to the outstanding payments owed to Himachal Pradesh from the Bhakra Beas Management Board, which have been pending for 14 years.
Why is water supply to Delhi and Haryana contingent on these arrears?
Chief Minister Sukhu has stated that the state will only provide water if the neighboring states settle the long-overdue BBMB arrears, emphasizing accountability in inter-state relations.
What educational reforms are being implemented in Himachal Pradesh?
The government is focusing on hiring teachers, enhancing facilities, and has established the Directorate of School Education to improve educational standards across the state.
How has the government supported families affected by the recent natural disaster?
The government modified rehabilitation rules and increased compensation significantly for families whose homes were completely or partially damaged during the natural calamity.
What is the significance of the Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding School?
The Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding School, affiliated with CBSE, represents the government's commitment to improving educational infrastructure and opportunities in Himachal Pradesh.
