Won’t tolerate harassment of people through rail and road blockade, be prepared for stern action: CM

Several other ways of protest but inconvenience of common man is unacceptable

Chandigarh, May 5:Strongly condemning the organizations announcing road and rail blockades in Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that legal action will be taken against those who disrupt public life and hinder the state’s progress.

In a statement issued today, the Chief Minister said that there are many other ways to express dissent,blocking transportation routes and hampering the development of the state cannot be tolerated. He added that such protests particularly harm the people of Punjab, especially hardworking individuals who earn their livelihood through daily labor. Road blockages often delay emergency medical services, and during the ongoing wheat procurement season, uninterrupted rail services are essential for the transportation of crops. Therefore, halting transport services severely impacts the interests of the state.

Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Any announcements, protests, or strikes that cause distress to the public and disrupt daily life will be considered acts against Punjab and its people. Those responsible for such actions will face strict legal consequences. Ensuring the development and prosperity of Punjab is our priority, and we will not allow anyone to derail that.”

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Punjab Vidhan Sabha pays tributes to departed souls

Also condemns Pahalgam terror attack terming it most cowardly

Chandigarh, May 5:The Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Monday paid tributes to departed souls including deceased of Pahalgam terrorist attack who had passed away since the last session of the Assembly.

During the 9th (special) session of the 16th Punjab Vidhan Sabha, the House paid respects to former Lok Sabha Member Master Bhagat Ram, former Minister Randhir Singh Cheema and deceased of the recent terror attack at Pahalgam (Jammu and Kashmir). The house in unison condemned the dastardly and cowardly attack.

A two-minute silence was observed in the memory of departed souls as a mark of respect during the obituary references.

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Led by CM Punjab Vidhan Sabha passes historic resolution to no longer accept any order of BBMB on river waters

Punjab is sole and rightful owner of river waters and we will not share it with anyone- says CM

Slams BJP for hatching conspiracies to snatch river waters of state

Describes BBMB as White Elephant

Asserts that resolution is in defense of Punjab’s rights

Chandigarh, May 5:Led by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann the State Vidhan Sabha on Monday unanimously passed a historic resolution that Punjab will no longer accept any decisions made by the BBMB regarding water distribution.

Taking part in discussion after the resolution was moved by Cabinet Minister Barinder Kumar Goel, the Chief Minister said that Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) was originally established to manage the waters of the Sutlej and Beas rivers. He said that both these rivers belong to Punjab — they flow here, and their waters are entirely the rightful property of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Haryana and Rajasthan have no direct connection with these rivers.

However, the Chief Minister said that for years, Punjab’s water has been diverted to other states through the BBMB. Now, he said that the BJP government has started using this board for its political interests. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Without consulting Punjab, meetings are being called at midnight, and under pressure from other states, Punjab’s rightful share is being taken away.

The Chief Minister described the BBMB as white elephant and demanded for its reconstitution as per the new constitution. He said that it is totally useless and unacceptable in the present form adding that Punjab will be never accept it now. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is ironic that employees of other states are being paid from exchequer of state and they harm the interests of Punjab only.

The Chief Minister said that in recent days, the Bharatiya Janata Party, through its Haryana government, the central government, and BBMB, has been attempting to snatch Punjab’s rights. He said that in an unconstitutional and illegal manner, BBMB meetings are being convened to forcibly divert Punjab’s water to Haryana. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Haryana has already used up its entire allocated share of water by March 31.

The Chief Minister said that Now the BJP wants Haryana to be given water from Punjab’s share. He said that Over the past three years, his government has made efforts to supply canal water to every farm in Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that a massive network of canals and sub-canals has been developed adding that Until 2021, only 22% of Punjab’s farmlands received canal water.

However, the Chief Minister said that Today, nearly 60% of the state’s farmlands are irrigated through canals, which makes every drop of Punjab’s water extremely valuable. He said that Punjab no longer has any surplus water to give to any other state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that on April 6, Haryana requested water from Punjab for drinking purposes. Bhagwant Sing Mann said that Showing generosity, Punjab gave 4,000 cusecs of water from its share to Haryana, as our Gurus have taught us that giving water to the thirsty is a great act of virtue.

The Chief Minister said that Haryana has a population of 3 crore , and for all human needs including drinking, only 1,700 cusecs of water is required. Still, he said that they asked for 4,000 cusecs, and we gave it on humanitarian grounds. However, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Now Haryana is demanding 8,500 cusecs, which Punjab simply does not have to spare.

In response, the Chief Minister said that the BJP forcibly convened an illegal and unconstitutional BBMB meeting and passed a resolution mandating that Punjab must provide water from its own share to Haryana. Therefore, he said that it is the moral responsibility of this House to firmly and unequivocally declares that the Punjab government will not give even a single extra drop of water from Punjab’s share to Haryana. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Only the amount currently being given for drinking purposes will continue — not a drop more.

The Chief Minister also condemned the illegal and unconstitutional convening of the BBMB meeting by the Bharatiya Janata Party. He said that Punjab will no longer recognize the authority of the Bhakra Beas Management Board. Bhagwant singh Mann said that The waters of the Sutlej and Beas rivers belong solely and entirely to Punjab — and we will now use this water fully for ourselves.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab government will take all legal and constitutional steps necessary to protect its rightful share of water. He said that this resolution is in defense of Punjab’s rights, Punjab’s soil, and the future of our coming generations. Bhagwant Singh Mann envisioned that this resolution will save the waters of state for coming generations.

The Chief Minister said that green revolution had proved very costly for the state as over exploitation of ground water took place. however he said that his government has revised the water courses in the states due to which water is reaching at tail ends of the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that today the state government is utilizing 80% of canal water available with it.

The Chief Minister said that earlier the villages through which canal was passing never got water but his government is ensuring that water reaches at every point in the state. He said that previous leaders never bothered about these issues as they were apathetic about the common man and state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these leaders who lived in big palaces or houses were least concerned about the issues faced by the common man.

The Chief Minister said that the situation of water was very grim and the dams of state were having 55 feet less water as compared to last year. He said that Haryana had already exhausted its share of water in March after which Punjab had written six letters to them. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that 4000 cusec of water was also being given to Haryana on humanitarian grounds only.

The Chief Minister said that hands of Congress, Akalis and BJp were drenched with blood of Punjabis as these parties have backstabbed them by ignoring the water rights of state for vested interests. Batting for review of water sharing in every 25 years, he said that Yamuna Satluj Link (YSL) is required today as Punjab have also the equal right in Haryana’s water as they seek share in Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that interests of the state are of paramount importance for him and no compromise will be made with it.

The Chief Minister assailed the BJP led Union government for meting out step motherly treatment with Punjab. He said that as a fact of matter the saffron party is in indulging in petty politics to harm the interests of the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that BJP has an anti-Punjab mindset and if they get the opportunity they will delete word Punjabi from national anthem.

Outrightly rejecting the Dam Safety Act, the Chief Minister said that it is a serious attack on the state and its rights. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he had vehemently opposed it during his stint as Member of Parliament. He reminded that Punjab known for protecting the dams of the country and we don’t need anyone else to protect our dams.

The Chief Minister unequivocally thanked all the leaders from across the party line for attending the All Party Meeting. He said that this was an important matter pertaining to state and despite of ideological differences leaders from all the parties have supported him in this war for rights of state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that all the political leaders came together on a single platform and gave a stern and united message, which was the need of hour.

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Under the leadership of CM Bhagwant Mann, Punjab has passed a historic resolution opposing BBMB’s arbitrary actions carried out in the influence of BJP

Resolution Highlight:

1.Punjab government will not give a single drop of extra water to Haryana from its share. Only 4000 cusecs—currently being given as a humanitarian gesture for drinking purposes that will continue. Not a drop more.

2.This House strongly condemns the illegal and unconstitutional manner in which the BJP called the BBMB meeting.

3.The current BBMB functions merely as a puppet of the BJP-led Central Government. Punjab’s concerns and rights are ignored in BBMB meetings. Therefore, the BBMB must be restructured to ensure Punjab’s rightful representation and protection of its interests.

4.The Sutlej, Ravi, and Beas rivers flow entirely through Punjab. On what basis, then, is their water being diverted to other states? The 1981 agreement that governed this water-sharing was based on river flow levels that are significantly lower today. A new agreement is needed to reflect current realities.

5.The BBMB repeatedly violates legal requirements for proper meeting notices—often holding midnight meetings. This House directs BBMB to strictly follow the law in this regard.

6.The amount of water allocated to each state is clearly defined in the 1981 agreement. BBMB has no legal power to alter this. Any attempt by BBMB to reallocate Punjab’s share to another state through such meetings is illegal and unconstitutional.

7.This House considers the Dam Safety Act 2021 an attack on Punjab’s rights. It gives the Centre excessive control over state-owned dams and rivers, even those fully within state boundaries. This undermines India’s federal structure and weakens Punjab’s sovereignty over its water resources. The Act must be repealed immediately.

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•BJP’s latest conspiracy — Using Haryana, Centre government, and BBMB to snatch Punjab’s water rights.

•BBMB’s midnight illegal meeting — An illegal attempt to divert Punjab’s water to Haryana.

•Haryana exhausted its share by March 31 — now wants Punjab’s water.

•BJP’s goal — Rob Punjab’s rightful water and hand it over to Haryana!

•In just 3 years under Bhagwant Mann's government canal water reach to farmlands increased to 60%.This progress of Punjab is not going well with BJP government.

. In 2021, only 22% of fields had access to canal water — today it has reached 60%. Every drop is precious for Punjab!

•On April 6, Haryana requested drinking water — Punjab showed compassion by providing 4000 cusecs.

•The requirement was only 1700 cusecs, yet Punjab gave 4000 — because Punjab upholds the tradition of the Gurus!

Now they are demanding 8500 cusecs — that’s not a request, it’s daylight robbery!

•BBMB is now BJP’s tool — Holding illegal meetings to impose unjust decisions on Punjab.

.Clear message from Punjab: Not a single drop beyond our rightful share!

•This isn’t just about water — it’s about Punjab’s land, farming, and identity

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Final Electoral Roll Published for Ludhiana West Ahead of Bye-Elections: Sibin C

- DEO Ludhiana handed over copies of the final electoral roll to political parties

Chandigarh, May 5:In view of the upcoming bye-elections in 64-Ludhiana West Assembly Constituency, the final electoral roll has been published by ERO Ludhiana West following the Special Summary Revision with 01.04.2025 as the qualifying date as per the schedule announced by Election Commission of India (ECI). The copies of final electoral roll were also handed over to the representatives of the recognised political parties by Himanshu Jain, District Election Officer, Ludhiana as per the Guidelines of ECI.

Divulging the details, Sibin C, Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab, said, “As per the revised roll, the total number of electors in the constituency stands at 1,74,437, which includes 89,602 male voters, 84,825 female voters and 10 third gender voters. The number of Polling Stations has been rationalised to 192, improving accessibility and enabling a more convenient voting experience for all citizens. Notably, EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) coverage is at 100%, a testament to the efforts towards achieving a pure electoral roll.”

The revision process was conducted strictly as per the Guidelines of ECI by following relevant Acts and Rules. “The entire revision process was carried out strictly in accordance with the guidelines of the Election Commission of India, adhering to all relevant Acts and Rules. Key steps, such as providing the lists of claims and objections, as well sharing the draft and final electoral rolls with political parties were diligently followed”, highlighted Sibin C.

In addition, the Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab highlighted about the provision of appeal by electors to the DEO against the order of ERO and further to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) level if required as per as per the provision of Section 24 of Representation of Peoples Act 1950 and Rule 23 of Registration of Electoral Rules, 1960 and was explained to the representatives of political parties in the meeting.

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PUNJAB LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY UNANIMOUSLY PASSES PUNJAB LAW OFFICERS (ENGAGEMENT) AMENDMENT ACT, 2025

AMENDMENT TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE REPRESENTATION TO SCHEDULED CASTE CANDIDATES IN OFFICE OF AG PUNJAB

DESPITE HAVING 2 CABINET MINISTERS FROM SCHEDULED CASTES, PREVIOUS CONGRESS GOVERNMENT FAILED TO PROTECT THEIR RIGHTS, SAYS HARPAL SINGH CHEEMA

Chandigarh, May 5-In a significant step towards promoting social justice and inclusivity, the Punjab Legislative Assembly on Monday unanimously passed the Punjab Law Officers (Engagement) Amendment Act, 2025, presented by Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema. This landmark amendment enables the Punjab Government to notify relaxation in the minimal annual professional income criteria for engagement of Scheduled Caste candidates as Law Officers in the office of Advocate General Punjab.

Presenting the bill during a special session focused on protecting Punjab's waters, Finance Minister Cheema said that this amendment will provide adequate representation to Scheduled Caste candidates in the office of the Advocate General Punjab. He highlighted that the Aam Aadmi Party had promised to appoint lawyers from poor and backward families, and this amendment fulfills that commitment.

The Finance Minister explained that the Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, had reserved 58 posts in the Advocate General's office for Scheduled Caste candidates. However, many seats remained vacant due to the high income limit set by the 2017 law. This amendment aims to reduce the income limit, making it more accessible for Scheduled Caste candidates to join the office of the Advocate General.

Finance Minister Cheema also addressed the Congress party's stance on this issue, stating that despite having two cabinet ministers from Scheduled Castes, they failed to protect the rights of these communities. He recalled his own efforts to advocate for reservation in the 2017 Act, which were unfortunately not accepted by the previous Congress government.

Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat and MLAs including, Dr. Sukhwinder Kumar Sukhi, Budh Ram Singh, Nachhatar Pal, Rajneesh Kumar Dahiya, and Vikramjit Singh Chaudhary, thanked the Finance Minister and the state government for bringing this much-needed amendment.

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PUNJAB WATERS ISSUE: CHEEMA DARES SAD-BJP & CONGRESS PARTIES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THEIR MISTAKES, AND APOLOGIZE TO PEOPLE OF PUNJAB

STAND OF HARYANA AND HIMACHAL CONGRESS EXPOSES PARTY’S DUAL CHARACTER, SAYS CHEEMA

REQUESTED THE PUNJAB AND HARYANA HIGH COURT TO TAKE COGNIZANCE OF THE STATE'S WATER ISSUE

COMMENDS CHIEF MINISTER BHAGWANT SINGH MANN'S STRONG STANCE ON PUNJAB'S WATERS ISSUE

Chandigarh, May Commending the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's unwavering commitment to protecting Punjab's water resources, Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday demanded accountability from opposition parties, especially Congress party for historical blunders in tackling water issues of the state besides daring them to apologize to people of the state for their misdeeds.

Addressing the Punjab Assembly during the debate on resolution brought by the state government to protect state rights regarding Punjab's waters, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that the Chief Minister's stance on the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) issue has set a great example, showcasing his dedication to the state's interests.

Criticizing the previous governments, including the Congress Party, Akali Dal, and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for their historic role in selling out Punjab's water resources, the Finance Minister urged the opposition parties especially Congress party to acknowledge their mistakes and apologize to the people of Punjab for their actions. "I implore you to stand before this House and apologize to the people of Punjab," said Cheema.

Minister Cheema also condemned the central government, led by the BJP, for its ongoing "attacks" on Punjab, citing the reduction of the state's borrowing limit and the implementation of "black farm laws". "The central government, under the BJP, is relentlessly targeting Punjab," said Cheema while adding that the Aam Aadmi Party, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's leadership, will resolutely defend state against these attacks.

In a significant development, Finance Minister Cheema also requested the Punjab and Haryana High Court to take cognizance of the state's water issue, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to protect Punjab's interests. He noted that the Assembly's unified stance on this issue demonstrates the state's resolve to safeguard its resources.

The Finance Minister concluded by thanking Chief Minister Mann for his courageous stand and assuring the House that the Aam Aadmi Party will continue to work tirelessly to protect Punjab's rights and interests. He also extended his sincere gratitude to all political parties for their unified commitment to safeguarding Punjab's waters.

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Punjab Paying the Price for Congress’s Double Standards: Tarunpreet Singh Sond

- Those claiming to be "paniyan de rakhe" Never Defended Punjab’s Rights

- As per riparian law, Punjab has the rightful claim to its waters

- Sond presents detailed historical and factual account of Punjab’s water exploitation

Chandigarh, May 5:Speaking on the government resolution regarding Punjab’s rights over river waters in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha today, Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond made it clear that Punjab does not have a single drop of surplus water to spare. He asserted that the state is suffering today due to the flawed policies of previous Congress governments.

He emphasized that Punjab is already grappling with a severe water crisis, with many blocks in the state classified as ‘dark zones’ due to depleting groundwater levels. Highlighting historical references and data, the Minister outlined how Punjab’s water resources have been systematically looted. He noted that during the 1980s, when Congress was in power both at the Centre and in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan states, the state government failed to defend Punjab’s water rights and instead bowed before the Centre.

Sond directly blamed Congress’s policies in the past for the current situation. He also reminded the House how, during the reorganization of Punjab, the Congress-led Central government betrayed the state by not granting it full control over its own capital. He cited the statement of Justice R.S. Narula, who had clearly said that Punjab’s demands, including that for Chandigarh, were completely justified.

Exposing the double standards of the Congress party, the Minister said that its leaders often say one thing and do another. He pointed out that those who call themselves "paniyan de rakhe" have never actually defended the state’s interests.

Providing data to back his claims, Sond said Punjab currently uses only 24.58% of the total available river waters, while Rajasthan uses 50.09%, Haryana 20.38%, Jammu & Kashmir 3.80%, and Delhi 1.15%. He stressed that even if Punjab were to use 100% of its share, the state would still face water scarcity. Under riparian laws, he said, Punjab has the legitimate right to its waters.

The Minister further stated that the value of 1 cusec of water is approximately Rs 1.25 crore, and if Punjab were compensated for its share of river waters, it would become one of the richest states in the world. He questioned why water is being given away for free, when other natural resources like gold, coal, and oil are not.

He accused the Centre of conspiring against Punjab during the creation of Haryana by manipulating water-sharing arrangements. He said that while other political parties have ruled Punjab for 75 years, none took effective action to safeguard the state’s water rights.

Sond referenced the Shah Commission Report, which also affirmed Punjab’s rights over Bhakra Dam, Nangal Dam, their powerhouses, and canal systems. He noted that to feed the nation, Punjab has exhausted its groundwater, and warned that the current pace of water exploitation will soon push the state into an even deeper crisis.

He concluded by assuring that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government will leave no stone unturned to protect the state’s rightful share of water.

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BBMB’S FORMATION A HISTORIC MISTAKE OF PREVIOUS REGIMES, SAYS HARJOT BAINS

• During Special Vidhan Sabha Session, EM Bains Vows to Protect Punjab's Water Rights

• Punjab's Irrigation Network Neglected for Decades, CM Mann led Govt Increases Canal Water Usage from 22% to 60%, says Bains

Chandigarh, May 5:After standing firm against the BJP led Centre Government’s directive to release the 8500 cusecs water to Haryana, Punjab Education and Information & Public Relations Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains today assured the state assembly that he would not allow excess water to be released from the Bhakra Dam, which falls within his constituency Sri Anandpur Sahib.

Highlighting Punjab's precarious water situation while addressing in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, S. Harjot Singh Bains stated that the state's agrarian economy relies heavily on groundwater. With no coal, gold, or oil reserves, groundwater is Punjab's only natural resource. However, over-exploitation of groundwater has led to 90% of its blocks being classified as dark zones.

He pointed out that the state's irrigation network has been neglected for 50-60 years, threatening the very lifeline of Punjab's economy.

S. Harjot Singh Bains criticised the previous regimes for failing to protect Punjab's rights during the formation of the BBMB, resulting in the state's water resources being exploited and wasted.

Representing the Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency, Harjot Singh Bains highlighted the water scarcity faced by the residents of his constituency, particularly in villages like Jeowal, Bhabour Sahib, Swamipur Bhagh and Khera, despite their proximity to the Bhakhra Main Line and Nangal Dam. He said that over 30-35 villages in the Changer area struggle to access water for drinking and irrigation. He expressed gratitude to Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann and Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal for providing water supply to these villages over the past three years and ensuring irrigation facilities for approximately 10,000 acres of the area.

S. Harjot Singh Bains informed the House that the CM Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government has successfully increased canal water usage from 22% to 60%. He emphasised the need to further motivate farmers and upgrade irrigation infrastructure to ensure surface water supply to every field, thereby reducing the stress on groundwater resources.

Lashing out the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) for illegally occupying Punjab's land, S. Harjot Singh Bains mentioned the deplorable state of Nangal city, which was built around the same time as Chandigarh but has become dilapidated in just 50-60 years. Similarly, Talwara has also been neglected. The Education Minister pointed out that Asia's largest workshop in Nangal, which could have employed over 10,000 youth of state, lies in ruins. He questioned the injustice, citing Punjab's historical sacrifices for India's independence and defence. He also urged the House to stand united in solidarity with Punjab, ensuring that not a single drop of its water is diverted to Haryana or any other non-ripairan state.

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PUNJAB DRAWS THE LINE: MINISTER GOYAL SLAMS BBMB, REFUSES EXTRA WATER TO HARYANA

BBMB IS MERELY PUPPET OF UNION GOVT; NEED TO BE RESTRUCTURED TO SAFEGUARD PUNJAB'S RIGHTS: BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL

Chandigarh, May 5:Punjab Water Resources Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal today said that BBMB has become merely a puppet of the union government and it should be restructured to safeguard rights of the Punjab.

Presenting the resolution in Vidhan Sabha, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal declared that the Punjab government cannot provide even a single drop of water from its share to Haryana. The 4,000 cusecs of water currently being provided to Haryana state for drinking purposes on humanitarian grounds will continue. Beyond this, not a single drop of water will be given.

He condemned the illegally and unconstitutionally convened meeting of the BBMB (Bhakra Beas Management Board) called by the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Demanding restructuring of the BBMB, he said that the current BBMB has become merely a puppet of the union government. In meetings, neither is Punjab's voice heard nor are Punjab's rights considered; therefore, the BBMB should be restructured. He said that the law specifies how many days' notice must be given for calling different types of BBMB meetings, but the BBMB does not comply with the law and illegally calls meetings at night. The House directs the BBMB to comply with the law in this regard.

He questioned the union government that the Sutlej, Ravi and Beas rivers flow only through Punjab. On what basis, then, is the water from these rivers given to other states? When the treaty for distribution of these rivers' water among states was signed in 1981, the volume of water recorded in the rivers and distributed was much greater than what exists today. Therefore, a new treaty should be constituted for the distribution of these rivers' water.

He stated that the 1981 treaty specifies how much water should be given to each state. The BBMB has no right to change this. If the BBMB decides in a meeting to give one state's rightful water to another state, such a decision would be illegal and unconstitutional. The BBMB should refrain from making such illegal decisions.

Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said, "For the past few days, the Bharatiya Janata Party through the union government, Haryana government and BBMB has been attempting to usurp Punjab's rights. By convening meetings through unconstitutional and illegal means, attempts are being made to divert Punjab's share of water to Haryana. Haryana has already used all of its water share as of March 31. Now the BJP wants Punjab's rightful water to be given to Haryana."

He said that in the last three years, Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government has endeavoured to deliver water to every field in Punjab. Extensive construction of canals and water courses has been undertaken. Until 2021, only 22 percent of Punjab's area was irrigated through canal water, but today canal water reached 60 percent of Punjab's area.

Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that every drop of Punjab's water is precious for Punjab. Punjab will no longer give its share of water to any other state. He mentioned that on April 6, 2025, Haryana state requested Punjab for drinking water. Punjab, showing magnanimity, provided 4,000 cusecs of water from its share to Haryana because our Gurus have taught us that providing water to the thirsty is a great virtue.

The Water Resources Minister said that Haryana has a population of 3 crores and to fulfill the drinking and other personal needs of 3 crore people, 1700 cusecs of water is required. However, Haryana asked for 4000 cusecs of water from Punjab, which we provided on humanitarian grounds. Now Haryana claims it needs 8500 cusecs. Punjab does not have surplus water to meet this demand, but the BJP forcibly convened an unconstitutional and illegal BBMB meeting and passed a resolution that Punjab will provide water to Haryana from its share, which is unacceptable to us.

He outrightly rejected the Dam Safety Act-2021 and demanded that the Union Government should immediately repeal the Dam Safety Act-2021. Denouncing the Dam Safety Act-2021 as an attack on Punjab's rights, he stated that this law gives complete authority to the union government to directly control rivers and dams in states, even when these dams are entirely within state boundaries. This fundamentally contradicts India's constitutional framework and constituted a direct assault on Punjab's constitutional rights over water.

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Canal Water Reaches the Tails of Malout After 50 Years, Mann Government Fulfils Farmers’ Long-Standing Dream: Dr. Baljit Kaur

Villages of Malout Finally Get Their Due Share of Water

Chandigarh, May 5:Appreciating the historic step taken by the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said during a special session convened over the issue of additional water release by BBMB that this is not just an administrative decision but a historic move for Punjab’s water rights and for safeguarding the interests of its farmers.

Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that ever since India’s independence, Punjab has faced injustice in water distribution. The state’s rights were exploited through unfair agreements and legislations. She pointed out that it wasn’t just the role of the central government but also the involvement of previous state governments of that time.

Citing the example of Malout constituency, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that for over 50 years, villages located at the tail ends of the canals were deprived of water. She highlighted the condition of villages like Balmgarh, Ramgarh, Ram Nagar, and Tarkhanwala where farmers, burdened by debt, were forced to work as daily wage laborers. Marriages were delayed, and generations lived their lives amid misery and struggle.

She mentioned that these were the same villages which were often ‘adopted’ by former Chief Ministers from Akali and Congress parties, yet no real efforts were made to listen to their grievances. Recalling an incident, Dr. Kaur shared how she once took elderly villagers to meet Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann in Jalandhar. The Chief Minister listened to their pain and immediately ordered work to be started.

She remarked that it was the Mann Government that showed the courage no previous government did. “When it came to ensuring water rights and listening to the voices from the villages, it was only S. Bhagwant Mann who said — ‘First, the water will reach the fields, then we’ll talk about election symbols. People must get a life of dignity before politics,’” she quoted.

Dr. Baljit Kaur further said that today, Malout constituency is fortunate as the cleaning and repair of distributaries are underway, and canal water is being supplied to the tail-end fields. For this, she especially thanked Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann and Water Resources Minister Mr. Barinder Goial.

In conclusion, Dr. Baljit Kaur appealed to the media fraternity to share this as more than just a story — it is a lived reality, which must be heard directly from the elderly who have endured this hardship for 50 years. She emphasized that the pain and suffering of these people must be addressed by the system that overlooked them for so long.

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CONGRESS OR BJP AT CENTRE, PUNJAB ALWAYS FACED BETRAYAL, SAYS AMAN ARORA

•AAP State President slams Centre Govt’s for harming Punjab’s interests

Chandigarh, May 5:Launching a scathing attack at BJP led Centre and Haryana Government of "putting a knee on Punjab’s neck" and looting its rightful share of water for decades, State President of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Punjab Cabinet Minister Mr. Aman Arora exposed the historical injustices faced by Punjab over its water rights during the Special Punjab Vidhan Session, on Monday.

Addressing the house, Mr. Aman Arora recounted how Punjab has been systematically deprived of its water resources since 1955. Later in 1960 with the Indus Water Treaty, which diverted 80% of Punjab’s river waters to Pakistan. He also highlighted how subsequent agreements—like the Punjab Reorganization Act (1966), the Tripartite Agreement (1981), and arbitrary assessments—further robbed Punjab of its rightful share.

Punjab has been betrayed repeatedly—whether it was Congress or BJP government at the Centre. They have always treated Punjab as a milking cow, taking our water and grain but giving nothing in return, Mr. Aman Arora said.

He pointed out that despite Punjab being a riparian state, non-riparian states like Haryana and Rajasthan were unlawfully given Punjab’s water, violating international riparian laws. In 1955, Punjab’s water assessment was 15.85 MAF, but by 1981, it was artificially increased to 17.17 MAF just to justify giving more water to Haryana and Rajasthan.

Mr. Aman Arora also slammed the Shiromani Akali Dal for its role in weakening Punjab’s stand, recalling how the Badal-led government had demanded Rs 3 crore for the construction of SYL canal on July 4, 1978 despite knowing the fact that it’s against Punjab's rights. On March 31, 1979, SAD government happily received Rs 1 crore sent by Haryana for the construction of SYL and signed Punjab’s death warrant. Later accepted the Tripartite Agreement in March 1981 under pressure of Congress led Governments in Centre, Rajasthan and Haryana, he added.

Praising Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s firm stance against releasing additional water to Haryana, Mr. Aman Arora said, "Punjab has no extra water to give. We will not bow down to pressure from Delhi or Haryana." He urged all political parties to come united, warning that Punjab’s survival is at stake.

Calling for a long-term solution, Mr. Aman Arora demanded the cancellation of all unjust water-sharing agreements and strict adherence to riparian principles. "If Rajasthan can be denied Narmada waters for not being a basin state, why is Punjab forced to give its waters to non-riparian states?" he questioned.

Mr. Aman Arora said, "Punjab feeds the nation, but its own children are left parched. Enough is enough—we will not let this betrayal continue." He urged all the political parties to stand united to ensure that Punjab’s voice is heard loud and clear at the centre level.

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Drive against corruption : VB flying squad nabs BDPO office Superintendent red-handed accepting Rs 60,000 bribe

Chandigarh, May 5, 2025 – In a major crackdown under the zero-tolerance policy against corruption spearheaded by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) on Monday nabbed Balkar Singh, posted as Superintendent, in Block Development and Panchayats Office, Amloh, in Fatehgarh Sahib district, red handed while demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 60,000.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the State VB said the accused was apprehended following a complaint lodged by a Sarpanch of Fatehgarh Sahib district.

The complainant has informed the VB that he had done mining on village Shamlat land during his tenure as Sarpanch and his case was pending with ADC Fatehgarh Sahib. He alleged that the above said accused has demanded the bribe to help him in resolving his case.

The spokesperson further added that following a verification of the complaint, the VB flying squad team laid a trap and apprehended the accused red-handed while he was receiving the bribe of Rs 60,000 from the complainant in the presence of two official witnesses. In this regard a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act has been registered against the accused at the VB Police Station Flying Squad-1, Punjab at Mohali. He would be produced before the competent court tomorrow and further investigations into this case was under progress, he said.

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Chief Minister’s anti-corruption action line delivers results: VB arrests BDPO office Superintendent in Rs 60,000 bribery case

Chandigarh, May 5, 2025 — Punjab Government’s fight against corruption has gained further momentum as the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) has arrested a government official in Amritsar following a complaint lodged through the Chief Minister’s Anti-Corruption Action Line. The vigilance operation underscores the growing success of this public initiative, which has become a powerful tool in empowering citizens and exposing corrupt practices across government offices.

Disclosing this an official spokesperson of VB informed that the arrested accused has been identified as Satnam Singh, Superintendent at the Block Development and Panchayats Office (BDPO), Verka Block, Rani-Ka-Bagh, Amritsar, who had demanded a bribe of Rs 60,000 from a resident of village Nabipur, district Amritsar in exchange for official action on an encroachment complaint.

He further added that the complainant had informed that he had submitted a complaint to the BDPO Verka, Lakhwinder Kaur, concerned the illegal occupation of the approach road to his residence by his neighbour Gurwinder Singh. The BDPO had marked the matter to the said Superintendent, who in turn instructed Junior Engineer Mohit Kumar and Panchayat Secretary Ashok Kumar to verify the facts.

The verification revealed that the encroachment on government land was genuine, leading to a penalty of Rs 3,284 being imposed. Despite repeated notices, the encroacher failed to comply, prompting the BDPO office to request police assistance to remove the illegal structures.

However, instead of proceeding with due legal action, Superintendent Satnam Singh had demanded Rs 50,000 to “facilitate” further steps, instructing the complainant to pay Rs 20,000 as an advance. The complainant transferred Rs 10,000 via Google Pay to Satnam Singh’s account. Subsequently, the illegal pillars were removed with police assistance.

Further retaliation by the neighbour, who blocked the village drainage, led the complainant to approach the accused again. Satnam Singh reportedly told the complainant to stay silent about the bribe or risk further inaction regarding the drainage issue.

The VB verified all facts before registering a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act against Satnam Singh at the VB Police Station, Range Amritsar. He would be presented before the competent court tomorrow. The role of BDPO Lakhwinder Kaur is under scrutiny and would be investigated further, the spokesperson added.

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau reaffirmed its zero tolerance policy against corruption and urged citizens to actively report any instances of bribery or misconduct by government officials. “The Chief Minister’s Anti-Corruption Action Line is a weapon in the hands of the people. We call upon all citizens to come forward without fear. Timely reporting leads to timely action,” the VB stated.