INLD leader Abhay Singh Chautala joined a protest dharna at Chanot village in Hansi district on July 5, 2026, demanding that the Haryana government immediately provide a water connection to the village from the Bhakra pipeline. Addressing the gathering, Chautala claimed that a T-joint installed a few days ago had the approval of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, but was removed the next day after objections from Hansi MLA Vinod Bhayana, who reportedly approached former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar with the help of former minister Manish Grover.
Allegations Against the State Government
Chautala alleged that the state government forced villagers to stage the protest by refusing a connection from the Bhakra pipeline. He accused the government of using the AMRUT scheme as an excuse to deny the connection, while similar connections were provided elsewhere in Haryana. Targeting the Congress, Chautala said the INLD, not Congress, was effectively playing the role of opposition in the state. He also criticized Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda, alleging that Hooda was not supporting the agitation.
Background of the Pipeline Dispute
The 27-km, 900 mm water pipeline from Rajli canal head, built at an estimated cost of Rs 66 crore, is intended to meet the potable water needs of Hansi town under the AMRUT scheme. Chanot villagers are demanding a T-joint connection from this pipeline. After the administration refused, villagers began a dharna. The T-joint was reportedly installed with CM Saini's approval but later removed, sparking the protest.
NHAI Halts Pipeline Work
In a related development, the district administration halted ongoing work on the Bhakra pipeline after objections from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) over proposed highway widening. Executive Engineer of the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), Sanjiv Tyagi, said the department received a letter from NHAI on June 24 asking them to stop work until the widening plan is finalized. Tyagi explained that if the pipeline is laid now by digging the road, NHAI would have to dismantle it again after the highway expansion clearance. He added that work would resume once NHAI grants permission, and the decision was taken in view of the feasibility of both projects.
Progress and Stalled Work
About 60 per cent of the pipeline work has been completed, but progress stalled after Chanot villagers began agitating for a connection. The administration has refused, stating the water is meant for Hansi town under the AMRUT scheme. The situation remains tense as villagers continue their dharna, demanding access to the pipeline.
