Dispute Sparks Political Storm in Punjab

Chandigarh :  A fresh political controversy has erupted in Punjab over Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s recent remarks targeting farmers for their silence on the ongoing water-sharing dispute. His comments have drawn fierce backlash from opposition leaders, especially Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa, who has demanded a public apology from the CM.

While addressing a gathering, CM Mann questioned the silence of certain farmer unions over the sensitive issue of Punjab’s water being allegedly diverted or shared with other states. He expressed disappointment over their lack of response, implying selective activism. His remarks were interpreted by many as an indirect attack on farmer leaders who have often taken strong positions on other political or agricultural issues.

Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Punjab, Partap Singh Bajwa, reacted strongly, accusing the CM of disrespecting farmers and attempting to deflect attention from his government’s failures. Bajwa said, “Bhagwant Mann must apologise for questioning the dignity and silence of our annadatas (food providers). Farmers of Punjab have always stood for the state’s rights and do not need validation from politicians.”

The controversy comes at a time when Punjab is locked in a heated inter-state dispute over water distribution, especially with neighboring Haryana. The issue has triggered widespread debate on the Satluj-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal and the protection of Punjab’s river resources.

Farmer unions have responded cautiously to the CM’s comments. While some chose to remain silent, others have expressed dismay, saying they should not be dragged into political blame games.

CM Mann, however, has stood by his statement, maintaining that protecting Punjab’s water is a shared responsibility and everyone, including farmers, must speak up when the state’s resources are under threat.

The political fallout of this controversy may deepen in the coming days, especially with opposition parties gearing up to make it a major issue in upcoming state-level campaigns