Has the High Court Challenged BBMB and Haryana on Water Demands?

Synopsis
In a significant legal turn, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has taken action against Haryana's water demands, questioning the motives behind them. This pivotal moment in Punjab's ongoing struggle for water rights highlights the complexities of inter-state relations over resources and reinforces the importance of legal frameworks in addressing such disputes.
Key Takeaways
- High Court's notice to Haryana and BBMB
- Questioning of water allocation strategies
- Reinforcement of Punjab's water rights
- Legal scrutiny of Haryana's demands
- AAP's commitment to water justice
Chandigarh, May 14 (NationPress) The Punjab and Haryana High Court has acknowledged the seriousness of Punjab's review petition and has issued notices to the Haryana government along with the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). The court has demanded detailed explanations regarding Haryana's request for additional water and their actions related to water distribution.
In its review, the High Court probed the evolving position of the BBMB chairperson on water allocation and sought clarification on the necessity of Haryana's extra water demands. This significant intervention reinforces Punjab's constitutional and legal rights over its water resources, a longstanding issue between the two states.
The High Court's directive was prompted by the Punjab government's ongoing legal efforts, which revealed procedural discrepancies within the BBMB concerning Haryana's requests for increased water release.
In response, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) praised the High Court's action as a pivotal moment. “This observation signifies a critical breakthrough in Punjab's struggle for water rights,” stated AAP representatives. The party reiterated its dedication to safeguarding Punjab's water and committed to advocating for justice on all fronts.
Furthermore, the High Court demanded answers from the BBMB and Haryana about a previous incident where the BBMB allegedly attempted to release water unlawfully. Punjab's counsel pointed out that no legitimate orders were issued by the Union Power Secretary concerning Haryana's claims. This absence of documentation further substantiated Punjab's position that Haryana's requests were unfounded and politically driven.
The Punjab government contended that Haryana's demands arose from undue political influence rather than legitimate administrative needs. Despite efforts by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to sway the process, the court upheld Punjab's objections and instructed the involved parties to respond to Punjab's application by May 20.
“We will not permit anyone to take Punjab’s rightful water share. The court’s directive has offered crucial judicial backing in our quest for justice,” the AAP remarked.