Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Singh Sahney Criticizes BBMB Rule Amendment
Rajya Sabha member Vikramjit Singh Sahney has voiced significant concern regarding the recent amendment to the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) Rules, 1974. This amendment opens up top positions within the board to candidates from beyond the states of Punjab and Haryana, a move that Sahney argues discards long-standing conventions and undermines the federal spirit of India's governance framework.
Dilution of Federal Representation
Speaking on Tuesday, Sahney emphasized that the amendment weakens the assured representation of partner states, reducing it to a mere preference rather than a guaranteed right. He highlighted that, according to established tradition, Punjab has historically held the member (power) post, while Haryana has represented member (irrigation). This arrangement ensured a balanced and equitable framework in the BBMB's operations, fostering cooperation between the two riparian states.
Historical Opposition and Sensitive Nature of BBMB
The parliamentarian recalled his strong opposition to a similar amendment in 2022, which first allowed appointments from across India in the BBMB, overriding these established conventions. Sahney stressed that the BBMB is a sensitive inter-state body responsible for managing the waters of the Satluj, Beas, and Ravi rivers. Any dilution of the role of riparian states, he warned, undermines cooperative federalism and risks disturbing the existing balance of water-sharing arrangements, which are crucial for regional stability and agricultural sustainability.
Implications for Water Management and Federalism
Sahney's concerns extend beyond mere administrative changes; he views this as a threat to the foundational principles of federal cooperation in India. By opening top posts to candidates from outside Punjab and Haryana, the amendment could lead to a loss of localized expertise and accountability in water management. This, in turn, might exacerbate tensions over water resources, which are already a contentious issue in the region. The AAP representative's statements underscore the need for careful consideration of federal dynamics in inter-state bodies like the BBMB to maintain harmony and effective governance.
