Chandigarh, April 14
Retired IAS officer and MLA Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal strongly criticized the Central Government for amending the rules of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and removing Punjab’s mandatory share in the board.
Dhaliwal said that by amending the BBMB Rules of 1974, the Central Government has opened the “Member (Power)” position—earlier reserved for Punjab—to officers from across the country, which is a direct attack on Punjab’s rights. Until now, this membership was limited to Punjab and Haryana.
Dhaliwal alleged that in this matter, the government of the Aam Aadmi Party has not only failed to protect Punjab’s interests but Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has, in collusion with the Centre, compromised Punjab’s rights. He said that the Congress will not remain silent on this issue.
Dhaliwal stated that removing Punjab’s share is part of a larger conspiracy to seize control over Punjab’s water resources. He added that the Centre is attempting to establish external control over the state’s resources, calling it a major betrayal of the people of Punjab. He urged the Punjab government to take strict legal measures to protect water resources.
Dhaliwal also requested the Punjab government to respond actively and constitutionally, and if necessary, use available mechanisms such as judicial review. At the same time, he called for peaceful and amicable resolution of disputes through constructive dialogue between the Centre and the state.
