Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab State Media In-charge Baltej Pannu on Wednesday criticised the BJP-led Central Government over recent changes in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), stating that the move reflects a larger attempt to take control of Punjab’s river waters and weaken the state’s rightful authority over its resources.
Addressing a press conference in Chandigarh, Baltej Pannu said that Punjab has a long history of facing injustice but has always responded with resilience, even as certain leaders from within the state weakened its position in the past. “The story of injustices against Punjab is long, but the people of the state have always fought back with double the strength.
Unfortunately, in the past, some leaders from Punjab itself, played a role in weakening the state’s interests,” he said. The AAP Punjab State Media In-charge stated that the Centre’s decision to open key BBMB posts to applicants from across the country goes against the spirit of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, and subsequent arrangements made during the formation of BBMB.
“Under the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, and later in 1976 when BBMB was formed, these crucial positions were meant for Punjab. Now, the Centre wants to take control by planting its own officers,” he said. Linking the development to a broader agenda of exploiting Punjab’s water resources, Baltej Pannu pointed out that Haryana had already exhausted its allocated share of water last year and later demanded additional supply.
“Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann made it clear, if Haryana failed to use its share properly, it is their fault, not Punjab’s. Even this year, Punjab repeatedly advised Haryana to use water judiciously,” he said. Baltej Pannu further stated that there are attempts to remove existing officials and replace them with individuals aligned with the Centre to influence decisions related to Punjab’s waters.
He emphasised that Punjab has already borne the burden of excessive groundwater extraction and its consequences. “Punjab has already suffered immensely, our groundwater has been depleted due to paddy cultivation, and people are battling serious diseases like cancer due to pesticides,” he said.
Recalling the history of the SYL canal issue, Baltej Pannu said that previous Congress and Akali governments made decisions that went against Punjab’s interests. He referred to agreements during former Chief Minister Darbara Singh’s tenure, land allocations under Parkash Singh Badal, and the foundation-laying ceremony conducted by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, noting that such decisions led to unrest in the state.
“Punjab witnessed unrest due to these decisions, and people have not forgotten,” he added. Praising the firm stand taken by CM Bhagwant Mann, Baltej Pannu said that the Punjab Government has consistently defended the state’s rights on water sharing.
“Mann Sahib has consistently taken a firm stand on SYL. He rightly said if it is Satluj-Yamuna Link, then Yamuna water should first reach Punjab,” he said. Highlighting the Bhagwant Mann Government’s efforts in strengthening irrigation infrastructure, Baltej Pannu said that canal water usage has seen a sharp rise in recent years, reducing dependence on groundwater.
“Canal water usage has increased from 22% in 2022 to nearly 80% today, and will soon reach 90%. Groundwater levels have started improving in several areas,” he said. Baltej Pannu also stated that there are simultaneous attempts to weaken Punjab politically by targeting institutions and raising disputes over key issues.
“Those who once belonged to Congress and are now in BJP, like Captain Amarinder Singh, Sunil Jakhar, and Ravneet Bittu, must clarify whether they stand with Punjab or not,” he said. Reiterating the Bhagwant Mann Government’s commitment to safeguarding the state’s rights, Baltej Pannu said that all possible steps will be taken to oppose the Centre’s move.
“Whether it requires legal action, approaching the Supreme Court, or raising the matter at every platform, we will fight to protect Punjab’s rights. Punjab will not bow down to such conspiracies,” he said.