Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann chairs all-party meeting; all parties oppose giving extra water to Haryana. CM to meet PM Modi on May 5th.
Chandigarh: The dispute over water sharing between Punjab and Haryana has intensified once again. All political parties in Punjab have united against Haryana's demand for additional water. In an all-party meeting held on Friday under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, it was decided that no extra water will be given to Haryana.
Chief Minister Announces Meeting with the Center
After the meeting, CM Mann stated that he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 5th, after a special session of the state assembly, to present Punjab's case. He said, "Haryana has already been given its share of water; not a single drop more will be given."
CM Mann also criticized the Haryana government's stance, stating that the approach of obtaining water through "pressure and threats" will not work.
All Parties Show Solidarity
Representatives from the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), BJP, and Akali Dal were present at the meeting. All clarified that the water available to Punjab is insufficient for the state's needs, making the question of providing additional water irrelevant.
Sunil Jakhar's Strong Statement
BJP state president Sunil Jakhar also supported CM Bhagwant Mann. He said: "If Punjab doesn't have water, how can it give it to anyone else? I am a Punjabi and I stand with Punjab. I don't need a certificate from anyone for this."
Jakhar also stated that the created dispute was a mere "storm in a teacup," and could be resolved through dialogue.
Opposition Expresses Satisfaction with the Unity
CM Mann expressed happiness at the all-party unity, stating that this is a matter of state interest and all parties should stand together on this issue. He urged the central government to take appropriate steps to resolve this matter.
What is the root of the dispute?
The Haryana government had demanded an additional 4000 cusecs of water from Punjab. Punjab claims that its own rivers are facing water scarcity and a water crisis. Therefore, providing additional water to any other state is not feasible.
Special Assembly Session on May 5th
CM Mann informed that a special session of the assembly will be held on May 5th to pass a unanimous resolution on the water issue. He will then travel to Delhi to meet the Prime Minister and present Punjab's case.
