Chandigarh: Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday declared that Punjab would "firmly safeguard its water rights at every cost" and that Haryana would receive water strictly according to its "legally scheduled quota and not before the stipulated timeline."
Water as a Lifeline
Referring to the Bhakra water-sharing issue and recent remarks by Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Mann stated, "Punjab will not compromise on its water rights under any pressure." He emphasized that water is an emotional, economic, and agricultural lifeline for Punjab, and the state government is fully committed to preserving the state's waters and protecting the interests of farmers and rural communities dependent on agriculture.
No Spare Water
Reiterating Punjab's position, the Chief Minister said, "Punjab has no spare water to share with any other state." This statement underscores the state's firm stance on its water resources.
Khattar's Remarks on BBMB
On Friday, at an event in Panchkula celebrating 50 years of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar commended the board for its vital role in nation-building and its five-decade commitment to public welfare. He also referred to the earlier practice where the post of Member (Power) in the BBMB was held by an officer from Punjab and the post of Member (Irrigation) by an officer from Haryana. Khattar noted that this was previously only a tradition, but now it has been formalized in writing that preference will be given to candidates from Punjab and Haryana for these posts.
The comments from both leaders highlight ongoing tensions over water sharing between the two states, with Punjab asserting its rights and Haryana seeking its due quota. The formalization of preferences for key BBMB posts may also influence future water management decisions.
