High Court Ruling on Water Dispute a Moral Victory for Punjab, Says CM Mann
Ludhiana, May 14,
A Triumph for Punjab’s Water Rights
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann hailed the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s verdict on the contentious water release issue involving the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) as a “moral victory” for the state during a public address in Ludhiana on May 14, 2025. The ruling addresses the ongoing dispute over water allocation to Haryana, reinforcing Punjab’s stance on protecting its resources.
Court Seeks Stakeholder Responses
CM Mann informed the gathering that the High Court has directed all stakeholders, including the central government, Haryana, and BBMB, to submit their replies by May 20, 2025. He highlighted that Haryana, having already exhausted its water quota for the year, will only be eligible for its next share starting May 21. “This verdict is a significant win for Punjab,” Mann stated, emphasizing that despite immense pressure from the Centre, Haryana, and BBMB, the state successfully defended its water share.
Punjab’s Firm Stand on Water Sharing
Reiterating Punjab’s position, Mann asserted that the state has no surplus water to share with others. “Not even a single drop of water will be given to any other state,” he declared, noting that Punjab’s river resources have significantly depleted, increasing the state’s own irrigation demands. He accused Haryana of previously “stealing” Punjab’s water and praised his government’s efforts in safeguarding these vital resources through both political and legal battles. “This victory is a triumph of truth,” Mann added.
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Commitment to Protect State Interests
The Chief Minister drew a parallel between Punjab’s role in protecting the nation’s borders and its determination to safeguard its water rights. “If Punjab can defend the country’s borders, it can certainly protect its own waters,” he said, underscoring the state’s resilience. Mann reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to defending Punjab’s interests, stating, “We will leave no stone unturned to ensure the state’s rights are protected.”
Context of the Dispute
The water dispute stems from BBMB’s decisions on distributing water from the Sutlej and Beas rivers, which Punjab claims as its exclusive right. The state has been at odds with Haryana and the central government, accusing them of attempting to divert Punjab’s share through unfair means. The High Court’s directive provides Punjab a crucial window to strengthen its legal position, aligning with Mann’s broader agenda to prioritize Punjab’s agricultural and economic needs.
Looking Ahead
With the court’s next hearing scheduled for May 20, Punjab remains steadfast in its resolve to retain its water resources. CM Mann’s leadership in this matter continues to resonate with Punjab’s populace, as the state prepares for further legal proceedings to secure its rights for future generations.
