Will Punjab CM's All-party Meeting Halt Extra Water Supply to Haryana?

Chandigarh, May 2 (NationPress) An all-party meeting led by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took place on Friday to address the contentious issue of supplying extra water to neighboring Haryana. The assembly reached a unanimous conclusion that Punjab does not possess any surplus water. Additionally, they agreed to approach either Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss the situation.

The meeting was attended by leaders from prominent parties including AAP, BJP, Congress, and Sriomani Akali Dal.

After the meeting, a media briefing revealed that all political factions expressed solidarity with the AAP government's stance against providing extra water to Haryana.

CM Mann informed reporters that all parties, regardless of their ideological differences, suggested that the government must conserve every drop of water, which he described as the lifeblood of the state.

He pointed out that Haryana is currently receiving 4,700 cusecs while its allocated share is only 1,700 cusecs, and is now poised to gain from the illegal appropriation of Punjab’s rightful share.

This ongoing dispute was ignited by the Bhakra Beas Management Board’s (BBMB) decision to release 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana, which constitutes an additional 4,500 cusecs.

CM Mann emphasized that Haryana has already consumed 103 percent of its allocated share and issued a warning of potential protests “if Punjab’s rights are compromised.”

A special Assembly session to discuss the water-sharing issue has been convened for May 5.

While addressing the gathering, CM Mann expressed dismay over the Centre's attempt to “usurp” Punjab’s water rights through the misapplication of the BBMB.

He noted that the meeting focused on the unfair allocation of water to Haryana by the Union government.

“The unity displayed by all political parties regarding this sensitive issue is significant as we oppose the Centre’s initiative to share additional water,” Mann stated unequivocally.

“We are united in protecting the interests of Punjab and its people. We received a recommendation to meet the Prime Minister on this matter, and we will finalize our approach after the special Assembly session on Monday,” he added.

Moreover, he assured that “everyone will have the opportunity to express their views during the discussion.”

CM Mann reiterated that Punjabis are entitled to every drop of river water, and no one can take it away.

During the special Assembly session, a key resolution concerning the water issue will be presented.

He reaffirmed that the government will not make concessions on this matter, ensuring that Punjab's interests regarding river waters are protected.

State BJP President Jakhar stated that Punjab has no surplus water to share, especially during a time when war-like conditions exist at the International Border, indicating that the government is destabilizing Punjab with protests.

Jakhar asserted that the BJP has consistently prioritized Punjab’s interests and has maintained a firm position that no surplus water is available for allocation to other states.

As the water release is yet to commence, the Punjab government has heightened security at the Nangal dam, anticipating potential law-and-order issues.

CM Mann visited the Nangal Dam on Thursday, securing downstream gates to prevent water intended for Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan from being released.

Cabinet Minister Aman Arora pointed out that Punjab, holding a 60 percent share in the BBMB, is facing unjust attempts to redirect its water to Haryana.