Chandigarh, April 1
Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa today launched a strong attack on the BJP-led Central Government, accusing it of systematically undermining Punjab’s constitutional rights and federal autonomy under the direction of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He said that the recent decision to open the membership of the Bhakra Beas Management Board to non-stakeholder states is part of a larger and deliberate pattern to dilute Punjab’s control over its own resources and institutions. Bajwa asserted that BBMB is directly linked to Punjab’s river waters, which form the backbone of the state’s agrarian economy, and any attempt to alter its composition amounts to interference in Punjab’s water rights. He alleged that this is not an isolated move but part of a series of actions by the Centre, including appointing BBMB Chairmen from outside the stakeholder states, repeated interference in institutions like Panjab University, increasing central control over the administration of Chandigarh, allowing Haryana to push for a separate assembly building in Chandigarh, and continued pressure on contentious issues like the Satluj-Yamuna Link canal, all of which reflect a consistent attempt to weaken Punjab’s position.
Bajwa said that the BJP, having failed to gain political ground in Punjab, is now trying to control the state administratively and indirectly, which amounts to ruling Punjab by proxy. Bajwa warned that such continued encroachment poses a serious threat to the federal structure of the country and undermines the spirit of cooperative federalism. He also criticized the Aam Aadmi Party government led by Bhagwant Mann for its complete inaction, stating that at a time when Punjab needed a strong response, the state government has chosen silence, thereby emboldening the Centre. He said that mere statements and resolutions are not enough and urged the state government to immediately approach the Supreme Court and challenge these decisions legally.
Bajwa cautioned that if such trends continue unchecked, Punjab could face serious risks in the near future, particularly concerning its river waters, adding that today it is BBMB and tomorrow it could be decisions directly affecting Punjab’s share of water. He called for a united stand across political lines, stating that this is not about politics but about safeguarding Punjab’s rights, resources, and future.
