BBMB won’t give single drop of state’s share to Haryana: Bittu

Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu on Thursday accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of “enacting a drama” over the river water sharing issue and assured that “not a single drop of state’s share” would be released to other states by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).

The statement came a day after the board decided to release 8,500 cusec water to Haryana from the Bhakra Dam with immediate effect, a decision vehemently opposed by Punjab.

Punjab found itself cornered as BJP-ruled Haryana, Delhi and Rajasthan reportedly came together to press for the demand for river water.

Reacting to his party’s criticism, BJP leader Bittu described the CM’s response over the issue as “theatrics” and “politically motivated”.

In a statement, he termed it a “distraction” at a time when people “stood united” on the issue of national security, apparently referring to the Pahalgam terror attack.

“Mann is trying to divert attention by staging unnecessary drama over water sharing,” Bittu said.

The minister said he had spoken directly with the Chairman of the BBMB, who assured him that “no additional water from Punjab’s quota was being released”.

Citing his experience as a former Anandpur Sahib MP, Bittu said he had actively participated in BBMB meetings and was well-acquainted with its operations.

He said the water-sharing dispute between Punjab and Haryana was already being heard by the Supreme Court, and if Haryana required more water, it should approach the court.

“As a Union minister, I categorically state that Punjab’s rightful share of water will not be released under any circumstances,” he asserted.

Punjab