Wed Apr 30 16:08:57 UTC 2025: ## Haryana Opposition Blasts BJP Over Water Dispute with Punjab

**GURUGRAM, Haryana – April 30, 2025** – Opposition parties in Haryana are sharply criticizing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its handling of the ongoing water dispute with Punjab. The conflict centers on the release of water from the Bhakra and Pong dams, managed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), and the stalled Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal project.

Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda (Congress) accused the BJP of failing to protect Haryana’s interests, citing the Supreme Court’s verdict in Haryana’s favor on the SYL canal but lack of subsequent water allocation. He called for an all-party meeting and a special assembly session to address the issue, also criticizing the BJP’s alleged inaction regarding Haryana’s representation on the BBMB.

Congress Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Surjewala blamed the central BJP government, specifically Ministers Manohar Lal and C.R. Patil, for allowing the conflict to escalate, leaving both states and the people of Haryana to suffer. He highlighted that the BBMB, not either state government, controls water release.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann defended his refusal to release more water, claiming Haryana has already exceeded its allocated share. He further accused the BJP of pressuring Punjab through the BBMB.

The Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) announced state-wide protests from May 5-7, demanding Haryana’s representation on the BBMB and urging Chief Minister Nayab Saini to engage with the central government. The INLD also criticized the Congress for its perceived silence on the issue. The SYL project, intended to equitably distribute water between Punjab and Haryana, remains incomplete due to long-standing disagreements.

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