Punjab's Rights Deferred: CM Mann Challenges Centre

CM Bhagwant Mann of Punjab expressed concerns over the Centre's decision to defer key issues involving Punjab. At the Northern Zonal Council meeting, he resisted claims by neighboring states on Punjab's resources and proposed solutions for regional water management, raising awareness about governance and regional cooperation challenges.

In a significant development, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has highlighted that the Central government has deferred crucial matters concerning Punjab's resources and rights. These issues, involving river waters sharing and Panjab University's restructuring, were extensively discussed at the recent Northern Zonal Council meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Faridabad.

Mann expressed his dissatisfaction with the Centre's stance, asserting that Punjab's interests should not be sidelined. He openly challenged the claims and proposals by neighboring states at the meeting, emphasizing that these could potentially infringe on Punjab's rights. Mann also suggested alternatives such as channeling water from the Chenab river to address the irrigation needs of northern states.

Further addressing the pollution concerns in Delhi, Mann defended Punjab, stating that the pollution narrative unfairly targets his state. Additionally, he raised the issue of Panjab University's Senate restructuring and highlighted Punjab's historic entitlements and rights, including the allocation and utilization of river waters.

(With inputs from agencies.)