Political parties condemn attempt to 'seize' Punjab river waters

Chandigarh

Punjab's political parties, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, united to condemn the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) for its actions to snatch river waters. They pledged to take all necessary steps to ensure that water flows to Haryana and other states. The leaders praised Mann for allowing 4,000 cusecs of water daily to Haryana for its drinking needs, calling it a compassionate decision. They agreed that the state government should explore all legal, political, and administrative measures to protect Punjab's water rights.

The parties also expressed support for Mann’s efforts to safeguard the state’s interests. While they appreciated the humanitarian gesture to Haryana, they condemned the Haryana government and BBMB for their hostile, anti-Punjab actions. The political parties also criticized the central government’s interference, particularly its removal of the Punjab-appointed Member (Power) in the BBMB.

The leaders emphasized that Punjab, holding a 60% share in the BBMB, should have veto power to prevent other stakeholders from conspiring against it. They vowed to fight together, putting aside political differences, to protect the state's rights.

Chief Minister Mann thanked the political parties for their support, which gave him moral strength. He announced a special session of the Vidhan Sabha on Monday to condemn the actions of the Union government and BBMB. Mann reiterated that the water crisis was imposed on Punjab by the Centre, but the state is morally and legally strong in opposing it.