Amritsar: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) state chief spokesperson and MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal announced on Thursday that the Punjab government has initiated steps to recover Rs 1.44 lakh crore from Rajasthan as compensation for water supplied since 1960.
Background of the Water Agreement
Addressing a gathering in Amritsar, Dhaliwal explained that an agreement was signed in the 1920s between the Bikaner princely state, undivided Punjab, and the British government. Under this agreement, Rajasthan paid Punjab on a per-acre basis for water supplied through the Ferozepur feeder canal until 1960.
Allegations of Negligence
Dhaliwal alleged that the compensation was discontinued after 1960 due to the negligence of successive Punjab governments. He stated that from 1960 to March 2022, no action was taken to recover the dues. However, the current Punjab government has now initiated action to recover the amount.
Centre's Role
The MLA further claimed that the central government is not extending any support in the matter. He urged the Centre to cooperate in resolving the issue.
The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about inter-state water disputes and resource sharing. The Punjab government's move is seen as an effort to reclaim historical dues that have accumulated over decades.
