The EditorWater Shortage Sparks Fresh Political Storm in Haryana
As the water crisis worsens across Haryana, the situation has triggered a new political and public movement. Farmers and Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) workers are preparing for a major demonstration on Monday, May 5, at the Kaithal District Headquarters. The aim is to submit a memorandum to the Central Government through the Deputy Commissioner, demanding fair water distribution.
The protest is in response to the recent statement by Punjab’s Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, who allegedly suggested reducing Haryana’s share of Bhakra water. His comment has drawn sharp criticism from political opponents and Haryana’s farming community.
Alarming Shortage and Unmet Needs
Haryana’s water need stands at 36 million acre-feet (MAF), but the state receives only 14 MAF. Most of its canals operate at 25% less capacity. In irrigated regions, water is available only once every 24 days. This deficit has pushed vast areas into the “dark zone,” where groundwater levels are critically low.
Farmers argue that this shortage is neither natural nor accidental. According to them, it stems from continuous neglect and flawed decisions by both Punjab and the Central Government.
Role of BBMB and Central Government in Crisis
In 2022, the Centre made a controversial amendment to the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) rules. It removed Haryana’s full-time technical member—a post typically held by an irrigation engineer. This person used to oversee water distribution, ensuring Haryana received its rightful share.
Since then, the flow of water to Haryana has declined further, and farmers now believe they are being sidelined in this essential lifeline.
Political Leaders Under Fire
Balkaar Ballu, INLD leader from Guhla, spoke openly during a press conference at Sir Chhotu Ram Kisan Bhawan. He blamed the BJP-led state government for failing to protect Haryana’s rights. He also accused the Congress of maintaining silence on the issue.
He reminded the media that the Supreme Court had already ruled in Haryana’s favor in the SYL (Sutlej-Yamuna Link) canal matter. Despite this, the canal remains incomplete. According to Ballu, Arvind Kejriwal had once referred to SYL water as Punjab’s, and is now engaging in regional politics to gain favor in Punjab after losing ground in Delhi.
Delayed Projects and Growing Discontent
The failure to develop key water infrastructure like the Renuka and Kishau dams has worsened the crisis. The water meant for Haryana continues to either be diverted or lost. Shockingly, 1600 cusecs of water are still flowing from Punjab into Pakistan. Meanwhile, Punjab allegedly uses political arguments to avoid sharing water with Haryana.
This situation, as farmers argue, is not only politically motivated but deeply unjust.
Monday’s Protest: A Demand for Justice
On Monday, May 5, farmers and INLD supporters will gather at Kaithal district headquarters. They will stage a peaceful protest and submit a detailed memorandum to the central government. Their core demand is a fair and accountable distribution of water based on Haryana’s rightful share.
Leaders like Jagdev Singh Badsui, Gurmel Singh Cheeka, Muni Cheeka, Jasmer Singh Cheeka, Balwant Pidhal, and Gurnam Singh Khushal Majra are expected to join the protest.
Public Sentiment: A State’s Struggle for Survival
Public sentiment reflects anger and deep frustration. Farmers feel that they have been neglected for far too long. They believe political games and administrative lapses are turning a vital resource into a weapon of control.
The voices from the ground stress that water is a basic right, not a political tool. Without it, agriculture, livelihoods, and entire communities will suffer.
Conclusion: The Fight for Haryana’s Water
The water crisis in Haryana is not just a shortage—it’s a clear sign of policy failure. The Monday protest is not merely symbolic; it is a desperate cry for fairness. Unless the Centre and Punjab reconsider their positions and take immediate corrective action, the situation may spiral into a full-blown disaster.
The farming community, along with political groups like the INLD, are now determined to bring national attention to this life-threatening issue. Their demand is simple: Haryana deserves its fair share of water—nothing more, nothing less.
