CM Bhagwant Mann slammed the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) over its decision to release 8,500 cusecs of water to the neighbouring state, saying the “robbery” of Punjab’s rights will not be tolerated
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann spoke to the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) at Nangal dam on Thursday. PIC/X
Amid mounting tensions over the water-sharing issue with Haryana, Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann on Thursday ruled out the release of additional water to the neighbouring state, asserting that it had already used up its share. He accused the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) of overstepping its authority by deciding to release 8,500 cusecs to Haryana, and said “robbery” of Punjab’s rights would not be tolerated, news agency PTI reported.
“The BBMB has no right to dictate to Punjab,” said Mann, adding, “Not even a single drop will be given. We don’t have surplus water—so don’t expect any from us.”
Mann made the remarks during a visit to Nangal dam in Rupnagar district, where Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers staged a dharna against BBMB’s decision. Bains claimed the room regulating the water supply had been locked and the key handed over to police.
The AAP government has convened an all-party meeting on Friday and a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Monday to discuss the issue, PTI reported.
The BBMB’s decision came despite strong objections from Punjab, which claimed Haryana had already utilised 103 per cent of its allocated share, PTI reported. “How can they bypass Punjab and take water? Punjab did not sign that decision,” Mann said, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled Haryana and Rajasthan of colluding to push it through. “They supported the move even though 60% of the BBMB is ours,” the Punjab CM said.
He also criticised the BJP leaders from Punjab, and questioned, “Whose side are Sunil Jakhar, Ravneet Singh Bittu and Manpreet Badal on? Either resign or stand with Punjab. This is a test of loyalty.”
They can take water from May 21: CM Bhagwant Mann
Citing dam levels, Mann said the Bhakra, Pong and Ranjit Sagar reservoirs were all below last year’s levels. Bhakra, for instance, stood at 1,555 feet on Thursday, down from 1,566.48 feet on the same day last year, reported PTI.
He insisted Haryana was being given 4,700 cusecs for drinking water—well above the 1,700 cusecs it requires by population—and questioned the sudden demand for 8,500 cusecs. “That means you want water for irrigation. You want to rob us of our rights,” he said.
The CM also recalled how, three months ago, Haryana had halted Delhi’s water supply. “They can take water from May 21,” he said, referencing the annual allocation timeline.
While reiterating that Punjab has no dispute with the people of Haryana, Mann accused the BJP government of politicising the issue. “We’re not enemies, but we won’t be bullied,” he said.
(With PTI inputs)
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