Will Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Challenge Centre's CISF Deployment at Bhakra Dam?
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Synopsis
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann voices strong opposition against the Centre's decision to deploy CISF at Bhakra Dam, declaring the state's refusal to bear any costs. This controversy arises amid ongoing water disputes with Haryana, highlighting Punjab's significant contributions to the nation and the perceived neglect from the central government.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab will not incur expenses for the CISF deployment.
- Ongoing water disputes between Punjab and Haryana are intensifying tensions.
- The Centre's decision is perceived as an attempt to “steal” Punjab's water resources.
- CM Mann aims to raise this issue with PM Modi.
- Punjab's significant contributions to the nation are often overlooked by the central government.
Sangrur, May 22 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, declared on Thursday that the state will strongly oppose the Central government's decision to station the CISF at Bhakra Dam and refuses to incur any expenses related to it.
"The Centre must grasp one fundamental point: we lack any surplus water to share with other states, nor do we have a single rupee to pay the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for the unnecessary deployment of CISF," the Chief Minister stated during a press briefing.
This announcement comes amidst ongoing conflicts over water allocation between Punjab and Haryana. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs informed the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), which oversees water and power management, that 296 positions for CISF personnel have been established for securing the Bhakra Dam Project located in Nangal, Punjab.
CM Mann emphasized that the state will never agree to these charges, describing the move as an attempt to “steal” Punjab's water by placing central forces at the dam.
He remarked that while they demand resources from Punjab in terms of food grains and other necessities, they simultaneously attempt to “snatch” the state's water through this action.
The Chief Minister criticized the BJP for providing “step-motherly” treatment to Punjab, rather than offering special packages in recognition of the state’s significant contributions.
CM Mann plans to address this issue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the upcoming NITI Aayog meeting scheduled for Saturday.
He pointed out that despite Punjab's leadership in national food production and its substantial representation in the Indian Army, the Centre has consistently “ignored” the state.
As a border state engaged in combating terrorism and drug trafficking, Punjab is shouldering a national responsibility, yet, unfortunately, “we are being asked to pay a hefty fee for it.”
Point of View
The decision to deploy CISF at Bhakra Dam reflects ongoing tensions regarding resource allocation between states. While Punjab's Chief Minister argues for the state's rights and contributions, this situation underscores the complexities of inter-state relations in India. Such disputes highlight the need for a balanced approach that considers both state autonomy and national security.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Punjab opposing the CISF deployment at Bhakra Dam?
Punjab is opposing the CISF deployment at Bhakra Dam because CM Bhagwant Mann believes it is an attempt to effectively 'steal' the state's water resources, especially amidst ongoing water disputes with Haryana.
What are the concerns regarding water allocation in Punjab?
The concerns regarding water allocation in Punjab are primarily rooted in disputes with Haryana over shared resources, with Punjab asserting it has no surplus water to provide to other states.
What did CM Mann say about the Centre's treatment of Punjab?
CM Mann criticized the BJP-led Centre for providing 'step-motherly' treatment to Punjab despite the state's significant contributions to the nation's food production and security.
How many CISF personnel are being deployed at Bhakra Dam?
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has announced the deployment of 296 CISF personnel at the Bhakra Dam Project for security purposes.
What action will CM Mann take regarding this issue?
CM Mann plans to address the issue directly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the NITI Aayog meeting scheduled for Saturday.
