Bhupinder Hooda Critiques New BBMB Criteria as Anti-Haryana
Synopsis
Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda voices strong opposition to the Centre's new eligibility criteria for BBMB posts, deeming it detrimental to Haryana's interests and asserting the need for protection of regional rights.
Key Takeaways
Bhupinder Hooda opposes new BBMB criteria.
New rules may undermine Haryana's rights.
Past agreements aimed to protect Haryana's interests.
Concerns over water rights and employment opportunities.
Criticism of the BJP government's inaction.
Chandigarh, April 14 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Haryana, Bhupinder Hooda, criticized the recent notification issued by the Centre, which altered the eligibility requirements for leading positions within the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) designated for Punjab and Haryana, labeling it as "anti-Haryana."
In his remarks to the media, Hooda emphasized that when Haryana was separated from Punjab, a set of explicit regulations for the board was established to protect the interests of Haryana.
For example, it was mandated that the board's member responsible for irrigation would be from Haryana, while the member overseeing power would be from Punjab, and the Chairman would not hail from Himachal Pradesh.
Nevertheless, the new directive allows any member from any state to assume any of these roles, raising concerns that Haryana’s entitlements are being overlooked, a fear that has arisen from previous occurrences.
Hooda, serving as the Leader of Opposition, pointed out that while the BJP government has failed to secure the Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) water for Haryana, the state’s rights regarding both the allocation of Bhakra water and job opportunities within the management board are being routinely disregarded.
“It is deeply regrettable that the BJP government in our state remains utterly silent on this issue. Even after Haryana’s recruitment quota in the BBMB was rescinded, the state government did not voice any dissent,” he stated.
When questioned about the Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) canal situation, he recalled that a verdict from the Supreme Court had favored Haryana several years ago.
“For many years, BJP governments have been in power both in Haryana and at the national level. Yet, neither side is making any moves to ensure Haryana receives its fair share of water. This is a betrayal of the people of Haryana,” he concluded.
Point of View
Bhupinder Hooda's criticism highlights ongoing tensions between state and central governance, particularly regarding regional rights and resource allocation. The potential implications for Haryana's political landscape and resource management are significant, warranting further scrutiny.
NationPress
3 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Bhupinder Hooda criticize?
Bhupinder Hooda criticized the Centre's new notification changing eligibility criteria for BBMB posts, calling it anti-Haryana.
What are the implications of the new BBMB criteria?
The new criteria allow members from any state to hold positions traditionally reserved for representatives from Haryana and Punjab, raising concerns about the protection of Haryana's interests.
What is the SYL water issue mentioned by Hooda?
Hooda mentioned that the BJP government has failed to secure SYL water rights for Haryana, despite a favorable Supreme Court ruling.
How has the Haryana government responded?
Hooda criticized the Haryana government for its silence and inaction regarding the recruitment quota in the BBMB.
What is the historical context of BBMB's criteria?
The original criteria were established when Haryana was formed from Punjab, with specific roles assigned to protect Haryana's interests.
