Why is Former Haryana CM Hooda Criticizing Punjab for Halting Water Supply?
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Synopsis
Senior Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda has raised serious concerns regarding Punjab's decision to halt water supply to Haryana. His statements highlight the ongoing struggle for water rights in the region, a crucial issue affecting agriculture and livelihoods. This conflict reflects broader political tensions and raises questions about governance and resource management.
Key Takeaways
- Haryana's water supply has been significantly reduced.
- Hooda emphasizes Haryana's entitlement to water.
- The conflict could lead to agricultural crises.
- Punjab refuses to release excess water.
- BJP criticized for inaction on Haryana's behalf.
Chandigarh, April 29 (NationPress) Senior Congress figure Bhupinder Singh Hooda expressed his strong disapproval of the Punjab government's recent decision to cease water supply to Haryana. He emphasized that Haryana is not pleading but is entitled to its rightful share of water, which Punjab is obligated to provide. “Punjab has no authority to deny Haryana’s water allocation. This reflects a significant failure of the BJP government, which remains passive despite the ongoing decrease in Haryana's share,” Hooda stated.
He pointed out that the flow has been reduced from 9,500 cusecs to 4,000 cusecs. “Yet, the Haryana government has not raised a substantial objection,” he remarked. Hooda, a two-time Chief Minister of Haryana, warned that this unconstitutional move by Punjab would lead to a water shortage in several districts, including Hisar, Fatehabad, Sirsa, Rohtak, and Mahendragarh, complicating irrigation for upcoming crops.
“Meanwhile, the BJP remains inactive,” Hooda added. He criticized the BJP for failing to advocate for Haryana's interests since their ascension to power. “Despite the Supreme Court ruling favoring Haryana on the SYL (Sutlej-Yamuna Link) canal, we have yet to receive water. The BJP has been in power both at the state and central levels for three consecutive terms, yet there has been no significant action regarding Haryana’s rights,” he noted.
In response, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that they would not release additional water to Haryana, claiming that the BJP at the Union level is engaging in “a dirty game.” He suggested that the Union government should redirect water from the Chenab, Jhelum, Ujh, and other rivers to northern states due to the upcoming paddy season and the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan.
In a statement, Mann affirmed that Haryana and Rajasthan have been allocated their water shares. He accused Haryana of having already utilized its share in March and attempting to seize more water from Punjab. “Haryana has consumed 103 percent of its allotted water, and now the BJP is pressuring Punjab to release additional water,” Mann asserted. He also alleged that the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) is being exploited by the BJP to fulfill these demands.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of water rights and resource allocation in India. The ongoing dispute between Haryana and Punjab highlights the complexities of state governance and the need for equitable solutions. The perspectives shared by political leaders reflect the urgency of addressing water scarcity while ensuring fair distribution amidst political rivalries.
NationPress
19/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the conflict between Haryana and Punjab over water?
The conflict arose after Punjab decided to stop water supply to Haryana, prompting strong reactions from Haryana's leaders, particularly Bhupinder Singh Hooda, who argues that Haryana is entitled to its share of water.
How much water has been reduced for Haryana?
Hooda stated that the water supply for Haryana has been drastically cut from 9,500 cusecs to just 4,000 cusecs.
What are the potential consequences of this decision?
The cessation of water supply may lead to a water crisis in several districts of Haryana, impacting irrigation and the agricultural sector.
What is the stance of Punjab's Chief Minister on this issue?
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has declared that they will not release excess water to Haryana, accusing the BJP of manipulating the situation.
What has been the response from the BJP government?
Hooda criticized the BJP for not advocating for Haryana’s interests and failing to take action despite being in power at both state and central levels.
