Opposition Leaders Condemn Centre's BBMB Rule Amendment as Federal Encroachment
Opposition leaders across Punjab and Haryana launched a fierce critique on Tuesday against the Central government's recent amendment to the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) rules. The amendment permits individuals from outside these two states to occupy crucial positions within the board, a move that has sparked allegations of weakening state rights over water and power management. The criticism underscores deep-seated concerns about federal balance and resource control in the region.
Punjab Congress Chief Warns of Weakened Residual Powers
Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring labeled the amendment as a deliberate attempt to erode Punjab's residual powers. He asserted that this action reflects a broader pattern of central encroachment on state jurisdiction, potentially disturbing the delicate federal equilibrium. Warring also took aim at the AAP-led Punjab government for its subdued reaction, suggesting a lack of robust defense of state interests.
Haryana's Former CM Hooda Calls Notification "Anti-Haryana"
In Haryana, former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda described the notification as "anti-Haryana," arguing that it dilutes safeguards embedded in the BBMB structure since the state's formation. Hooda expressed alarm over the new rules allowing representatives from any state to hold any post, raising specific concerns about Haryana's rights, especially amid ongoing disputes over the state's share of SYL water.
Punjab Opposition Leader Highlights Resource Control Concerns
Punjab leader of opposition Partap Singh Bajwa characterized the decision as part of a "deliberate pattern" to diminish Punjab's control over its resources. He emphasized that the BBMB is intrinsically linked to Punjab's river waters and agrarian economy, and any structural alteration constitutes interference in state rights. Bajwa further highlighted a series of central moves to increase control over Punjab's institutions and urged the state government to pursue legal challenges.
Shiromani Akali Dal Alleges Systematic Weakening of Rights
Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia alleged that Punjab's rights within the BBMB are being systematically weakened. He termed the amendment a direct assault on state interests, criticizing the government's approach for allowing these rights to erode rather than strengthening Punjab's position.
Congress and AAP Leaders Warn of Federal Imbalance
Other Congress leaders, including Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa and Pargat Singh, joined the chorus, labeling the move an attack on federal rights and warning that unilateral changes could disrupt the balance of cooperative federalism. Hooda accused both the Centre and state government of failing to secure Haryana's interests, calling it a betrayal of the people.
AAP MP Raises Concerns Over Representation and Water Sharing
AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Singh Sahney expressed concerns, noting that the amendment discards long-standing conventions ensuring balanced representation from Punjab and Haryana. Traditionally, Punjab held the member (power) post and Haryana the member (irrigation) post. Sahney warned that opening posts to outsiders weakens the federal spirit and could disturb existing water-sharing arrangements for the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers managed by the BBMB.
BJP Leader Accuses AAP Government of Neglecting BBMB Posts
Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar countered by accusing the AAP-led government of failing to fill its own share of positions in the BBMB. Speaking in Jalandhar during tributes to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Jakhar claimed there are "1,780 vacant posts under Punjab's quota in BBMB." He criticized the state government for creating disputes over BBMB matters while neglecting its responsibilities.
Jakhar Criticizes Financial Management and Policy Failures
Jakhar further alleged that after four unsuccessful years in office, the government has introduced a cash scheme for women to mask its failures. He accused the administration of pushing Punjab toward financial bankruptcy, citing poor financial management leading to delays in employee salaries. Jakhar noted that approximately Rs 15,000 crore in Dearness Allowance (DA) dues remains unpaid, and despite high court orders, the government plans to appeal against releasing funds, reflecting an "anti-people attitude." In response to questions, he criticized the AAP-led government for displaying photos of Babasaheb and Shaheed Bhagat Singh while failing to follow their principles.
