CM Mann Vows to Block BJP’s sinister plan to steal Punjab’s Waters

Every Punjabi Will Fiercely Resist BBMB’s Unlawful Interference : CM Mann

BJP, BBMB Will Bear Full Responsibility for Any Law & Order Situation: CM Mann

Nangal (Rupnagar), May 11:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday vowed to thwart any attempt of the BJP led centre government to met out step motherly treatment with Punjab by snatching the waters of the state through the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).

The Chief Minister, who reached here to protest against move of BBMB to release water, said that it is unfortunate that on one hand Punjab is bravely confronting the enemy on the international borders and on the other hand the BJP government at centre is playing dirty games to deprive state of its waters. He said that Punjab is on high vigil as Punjab Police and the state is helping the Army to safeguard the 532 kilometer border along with Pakistan. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that on the other hand BJP is resorting to such tantrums which is highly unfortunate adding that this should be avoided in this hour of grave crisis.

The Chief Minister said that the Punjab government is committed to protect the border and even the waters of the state for which no stone will be left unturned by the Punjab government. He said that amidst escalation at the border when the drones are visible at the dams, the BJP is forcing us to stage protests at the highly sensitive zones amidst war. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that BJP is checking the patience of the state government and is forcing us to take severe action to save our precious waters.

The Chief Minister also questioned the silence of the Kisan Unions over this issue adding that they have not even issued a single statement in this regard. He said that they are merely running their shops by staging road and rail blockades on frivolous issues but are mum over this major issue concerning the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann quipped that the farmers are not here because AC equipped trolleys are not here and they have to protest under the sun, which they can no longer afford.

The Chief Minister said that the state government does not need the help of these Kisan Unions as it is self sufficient to safeguard the interests of Punjab and its people. He said that the BJP government through the BBMB officers is trying to rob the waters of the state, which is completely intolerable adding that this is a grave injustice and Punjab will vehemently fight against it. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this will not be allowed at any cost and the state government will foil all such attempts aimed at stealing the water of Punjab.

The Chief Minister warned BJP and BBMB that any such attempt by them can create a major law and order problem in the state adding that both of them will be responsible for this major loss. He categorically said that there is no order by the Punjab and Haryana High court to release the water from the state but BJP is illegally trying to snatch waters from Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Rajasthan government had sought more water from the quota of Punjab as the Military deployed at the Rajasthan border needed additional water.

The Chief Minister said that whenever the national interests are concerned Punjab never takes a backseat, so the water has been released to secure the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country. Bhagwant Singh Mann clearly said that if any BBMB officer now tries to come here and discharge the water then they will be responsible for their safety as people of Punjab are up in arms against them. He said that Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who hails from Haryana, is behind this entire mischief adding his plans will not be allowed to succeed.

The Chief Minister said that Khattar and BJP are underestimating Punjab because if Punjabis can protect the borders of the state then they are capable enough to save it water also. He said that Punjab has a glorious history of making supreme sacrifices to protect the 532 kilometres long border with Pakistan. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that today also Punjabis are at the forefront giving a befitting reply to the Pakistani Army and no stone will be left unturned for it.

The Chief Minister said that Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) was originally established to manage the waters of the Sutlej and Beas rivers. However, he said that for years, Punjab’s water has been diverted to other states through the BBMB adding that the BJP government has started using this board for its political interests. Bhagwant Singh Mann reiterated that BBMB must be reconstituted as it is totally useless and unacceptable in the present form.

The Chief Minister said that it is ironic that employees of other states are being paid from the exchequer of state and they harm the interests of Punjab only. He said that the state government will also seek an audit of the funds given to the BBMB in the last few years as the officers had used this hard earned money of taxpayers for their own interests. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that even the BBMB uses the money of the state to fight legal battles against Punjab, which is highly deplorable.

The Chief Minister said that it is unfortunate that the union government is repeatedly making efforts to give water of the state to Haryana. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he along with the Punjabis will sit at Nangal and vigilantly foil any move of the BJP to release water from the state. He said that Punjab is committed to safeguard its share of waters and no one, however affluent it may be, will be allowed to take it away from us.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister reiterated that the state has no spare water to share with any other state adding that even a single drop of water will not be given to anyone. He said that most of the blocks of the state are over exploited and the groundwater situation in the state is very grim. Likewise, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that as most of the river resources of the state have dried up, so it requires more water to cater to its irrigation needs.

On the occasion Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains and others were also present.

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WOMAN AMONG TWO HELD FOR LEAKING INFORMATION TO OFFICIAL POSTED AT PAKISTAN HIGH COMMISSION

— PROBE REVEALS THAT ARRESTED ACCUSED WERE RECEIVING MONEY IN LIEU OF SHARING CLASSIFIED INFORMATION, SAYS DGP GAURAV YADAV

— ACCUSED OFFICIAL ALSO IDENTIFIED AND NOMINATED IN FIR: SSP MALERKOTLA GAGAN AJIT SINGH

CHANDIGARH/MALERKOTLA, May 11:In a significant breakthrough amidst the ongoing drive to Punjab a safe and secure state as per the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Malerkotla Police apprehended two individuals including a 31-years-old woman for their alleged involvement in espionage activities linked to an official posted at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Sunday.

Those arrested have been identified as Guzala and Yameen Mohamad, both residents of Malerkotla. Police teams have also recovered two mobile phones from their possession.

The development came days after Amritsar Rural Police arrested two persons, identified as Falaksher Masih and Suraj Masih, for their alleged role in leaking sensitive information and photographs of Army Cantonment areas and Air Bases to Pakistan’s intelligence agency.

DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary investigation has revealed that the arrested accused persons had been receiving payments through online transactions in exchange for sharing classified information. They were in frequent contact with the handler and were involved in channeling funds to other local operatives as per his instructions, he said.

The DGP said that this operation marks a significant step in dismantling cross-border espionage networks and reinforces our commitment to national security. Further investigation will be undertaken as per established protocol, with a focus on tracing the financial trail and identifying additional operatives and linkages within the network, he added.

Sharing operation details, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Malerkotla Gagan Ajit Singh said that acting on credible intelligence, accused Guzala was arrested for leaking sensitive information regarding Indian Army movements to a Pakistan-based handler. Based on disclosures made by her during interrogation, a second conduit identified as Yameen Mohamad was also identified and taken into custody, he said.

He said that during questioning, accused Guzala confessed to have shared the confidential information about activities of Indian Army with the official posted at Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. Accused Guzala further revealed that she was doing it in lieu of money and the accused official has sent her Rs 30000 in two transactions— Rs 10000 and Rs 20000— via UPI, he added.

The SSP said that the accused official has also been identified and nominated in the FIR.

A case FIR No 88 dated 08.05.2025 has been registered under section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and sections 3, 4 and 5 of Official Secret Act at Police Station City-1 Malerkotla.

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Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan condoles the demise of former Head Granthi of Sri Harmandir Sahib

Chandigarh 11 May 2025:Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has condoled the demise of former Head Granthi of Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib Giani Mohan Singh who has completed his worldly journey and has gone to the feet of Akal Purakh.

Speaker further said that I am deeply saddened to hear the news of his passing away. Giani Mohan Singh was a great personality who has dedicated his entire life in the service of Guru . He will always remain in the hearts of the Sikh Sangat due to his service to the Guru Ghar.

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PUNJAB'S DECISION TO PROVIDE WATER TO RAJASTHAN FOR ARMY IS IN NATIONAL INTEREST: BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL

SAYS, PUNJAB'S FARMERS' INTERESTS WILL NOT BE COMPROMISED

"MANN GOVT STANDS BY ITS PEOPLE DURING CURRENT TURMOIL AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO IN FUTURE"

CABINET MINISTER REVIEWS DEVELOPMENT WORK OF 'DITCH DRAIN'; RS.15-CR PROJECT TO BE COMPLETED IN RS.12-CR

Chandigarh/Lehragaga, May 11:Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal today said that the Punjab government's decision to provide water to Rajasthan for the Indian Army is in the national interest, stressing that Punjabis are known for their benevolence and willingness to help others.

The Cabinet Minister said that the BJP led Union Government has not played a constructive role in resolving the BBMB issue. As Haryana has not utilized its allocated water share properly, hence Punjab will not tolerate any coercion, he added.

The Cabinet Minister clarified that Punjab is willing to provide water to Rajasthan for the Army as it is in the interest of the nation and the armed forces. However, Punjab's farmers' interests will not be compromised.

Regarding the BBMB issue, Goyal said that the organization has tried to favour Haryana and other states, despite Punjab contributing 60% of its funds. He assured that the Punjab government will take all necessary measures to protect its interests.

Speaking to the reporters, Goyal also praised the Indian Army for its surgical strikes against terrorist camps in Pakistan and expressed pride in the country's armed forces. He said, the Punjab government has stood by its people during the current turmoil and will continue to do so in the future.

Earlier, the Cabinet Minister reviewed the development work of the 'Ditch Drain,' runs through Lehragaga city and was long infamous for filth and ugliness, which is now being transformed into a public promenade. The work is nearing completion and will soon be dedicated to the public, informed the Cabinet Minister.

During the inspection of the construction work, he said that the drain passed through the heart of Lehragaga and people living along its banks faced pitiable conditions. In fact, many houses were built over the drain itself and were in a dilapidated state. Due to the surrounding filth, there was a constant risk of accidents. There had been a long-standing demand from the public for attention to be given to this issue.

Barinder Kumar Goyal informed that now two pipes, each 4.5 feet wide, have been installed in the drain to ensure smooth water flow. Initially, this was a Rs.15 crore project, but due to departmental integrity, it was tendered at Rs.12 crore, resulting in a saving of Rs.3 crore for the state's people.

He said that the project began about a month ago and is progressing rapidly toward completion. The 3-kilometer-long and 32-foot-wide drain is being paved with 15-foot-wide interlocking tiles. Grills will be installed along the sides, along with modern grass and plants. He said that the area, once avoided by everyone, is now being developed into a scenic walkway. To maintain it, three employees will be appointed, he added.

Local residents expressed that in the past 40 years, not a single rupee had been spent on this drain, nor had anyone come to inspect it. Now, however, people are coming here regularly for morning and evening walks.

The Cabinet Minister assured that rainwater will no longer be allowed to accumulate in slum areas and will be directed into the drain. He said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab government is committed to the development of both villages and cities. He said that no effort will be spared in beautifying and developing the city.

SDM Lehragaga Suba Singh, Narinder Kumar Goyal, Advocate Gaurav Goyal, Tajinder Kumar Ghai, SDO Chetan Gupta, XEN Gurdeep Bansal, XEN Jagdeep Bhakhar, MC Kapil Tayal, MC Surinder Kumar Jaggi, Shishpal, President of Aggarwal Sabha Lehragaga, Nand Lal Nandu, Megh Raj, Deepak Jain, Sanjay Kumar (President, Hanuman Mandir Committee), Ram Sarup, Retired JE Malkit Singh were also present on this occasion.

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Cabinet Minister ETO Donates Blood for Injured of the Poonch Attack

Offers Every Possible Help to Family Members

Free Treatment for Civilians Injured in War by Punjab Government: ETO

Chandigarh/Amritsar, May 11-Cabinet Minister Mr Harbhajan Singh ETO today donated blood for the surgery of S. Gurmeet Singh and his son Rajvansh Singh, who were injured during the recent attack by the Pakistan Army in Poonch and are currently undergoing treatment at Amandeep Hospital in Amritsar.

When ETO visited Amandeep Hospital today to check on the condition of the injured, the doctors informed him that the son’s surgery is scheduled for tomorrow and blood is needed for it. The Cabinet Minister immediately volunteered to donate blood and offered it to the doctors, who accepted and used it for Rajvansh Singh’s operation.

The Cabinet Minister assured the family of all possible support and personally gave them his phone number, saying, “If you ever need anything at any time, call me—I will be there immediately.”

He further shared that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has announced that any citizen injured in the current India-Pakistan war-like situation will receive free medical treatment provided by the Punjab Government. He added that the Chief Minister has appointed two Cabinet Ministers each to oversee arrangements in border districts to ensure that all Punjabis can be helped in this time of crisis.

He also appealed to the public to follow the guidelines issued from time to time by the Punjab Government and district administration for the safety of the citizens.

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EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS TO REOPEN FROM MONDAY, SAYS BAINS

Chandigarh, May 11:Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains today informed that all educational institutions, including schools, colleges and universities, will reopen from tomorrow (May 12) onwards.

S. Harjot Singh Bains added that if any University has already revised its examination schedule, those exams will proceed as per revised schedule. Further, Deputy Commissioners in border districts have been authorised to decide whether to open or close schools, based on local circumstances.

He also directed the educational institutions to strictly adhere to safety protocols and guidelines issued by the government.

Reaffirming the Punjab Government's unwavering commitment to education and student welfare, the Education Minister said that the reopening of educational institutions aims to ensure educational continuity and minimise disruptions, now that normalcy has returned.

Meanwhile, S. Harjot Singh Bains expressed pride and solidarity, stating, "We are immensely proud of our brave armed forces. Their dedication inspires us all.” He added that the state government remains committed to providing a safe and conducive learning environment for students to thrive.

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Satguru Kabir Sahib Echoes Message of Brotherhood to Humanity: Mohinder Bhagat

627th Pargat Diwas of Bhagat Kabir Ji Celebrated at Satguru Kabir Sahib Dham

Cabinet Minister Participated in State-Level Pargat Diwas Celebrations

Chandigarh/ Bharatgarh (Kiratpur Sahib), May 11-Bhagat Kabir Sahib Ji preached a universal message of brotherhood, transcending all barriers of caste, creed and discrimination, while championing equality for the welfare of humanity. These views were expressed by Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat while addressing the gathering at Satguru Bhagat Kabir Sahib Dham, Bharatgarh, during the state-level function commemorating the 627th Birth Anniversary (Pargat Diwas) of Bhagat Kabir Ji.

The Cabinet Minister stated that Bhagat Kabir Ji profoundly influenced the Bhakti Movement through his writings, leaving a lasting impact on Sikhism and other religions. He said that Bhagat Kabir Ji’s teachings highlighted the unity of all religions and promote the welfare of humanity. The Minister added that Kabir Ji was a fearless voice against communal discrimination, guiding India’s spiritual and social ideology toward harmony.

The Cabinet Minister commended the Satguru Kabir Samaj Sabha Bharatgarh (Rupnagar), Kabir Panth Maha Sabha Punjab, Kabir Panth Maha Sabha Bharat and all committee members for their efforts in uniting Kabir Panthis through such events. He also announced a grant of ₹5 lakh to the organization. The occasion was graced by divine kirtan performed by Giani Kanwar Harminder Singh , Nishkam Sewa (Kirtani Jatha) and Dhadi Jatha Bhai Gurdev Singh Ghona

On this occasion, Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat was accorded a warm welcome upon his arrival at the event, where he was also presented with a Guard of Honour by the District Administration. The event witnessed the esteemed presence of Rajinder Singh Kodal, President of Kabir Panth Mahasabha Punjab; Ram Sarup, General Secretary; Darshan Singh, Vice President; Amrik Singh, Senior Meet President; Jatinder Singh Kodal and Paramjit Singh, Treasurers; Rajinder Singh Dher, Field Secretary; Kulwant Singh, Vice President; Ram Kumar, Committee Member; Sukhbir Singh Kodal, Member; Rajiv Parmar, General Secretary of Kabir Panth Mahasabha Bharat; Ganpat Rai, Vice President; and Rajinder Singh, President of the Chandigarh Unit of Kabir Panth Mahasabha. Others present included Sham Lal, Daya Ram, President of Himachal Pradesh Unit; Keval Singh; along with numerous office bearers, committee members of Kabir Panthi organizations, and local residents in large numbers. On this occasion, Baba Gurjant Singh Head of Gurdwara Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib (Ninth Patshahi), Bharatgarh, S.P. Arvind Meena, D.S.P. Jasandeep Singh Mann, Gurdev Singh, Tilak Raj, Darshan Singh, and Manjit Singh were present as special attendees.