In a sharp escalation of inter-state tensions, Punjab's Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal on Tuesday launched a fierce attack on the Congress-led government in Himachal Pradesh. The senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader accused the neighbouring state of imposing an "illegal" financial burden of Rs 500 crore on the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).
An "Arbitrary Levy" Against Federal Principles
Addressing the media in Chandigarh, Minister Goyal condemned the proposed charge, labelling it a "new cess" that violates federal principles and lacks any legal foundation. He asserted that this move directly targets Punjab's interests and constitutes a deliberate conspiracy against the state.
"The Congress government has come up with another arbitrary levy without explaining under which law it has been imposed," Goyal stated, highlighting that this is not Himachal Pradesh's first such attempt. He recalled a previous effort to impose a water cess, which was eventually withdrawn after being challenged legally.
No Clarity on Assessment, Figures Changed: Allegations
The minister raised serious questions about the methodology behind the massive Rs 500 crore demand. He claimed there is no transparency in how the value of BBMB's land, machinery, and infrastructure was assessed to arrive at this figure.
Goyal further alleged that Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu initially spoke of a 4% tax, which was later reduced to 2%, before finally settling on the flat Rs 500 crore sum as the state's share. He termed this entire process unconstitutional, emphasizing that Punjab holds a major stake in the BBMB and any such levy would severely impact the state.
The Punjab government has already formally communicated its stance to the BBMB, declaring the levy both illegal and unacceptable.
Punjab Vows to Fight at Every Forum
Outlining the state's plan of action, Minister Goyal declared, "We will fight this issue before the BBMB, in courts, and at every appropriate forum." He reaffirmed the commitment of the AAP government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, to prevent any financial exploitation or injustice against Punjab.
Goyal also took a political jab, accusing the Congress party of having a history of compromising Punjab's interests, especially concerning water rights. He criticised Punjab Congress leaders for their silence on the current issue, alleging they have failed to stand up for the state.
The dispute sets the stage for a potential legal and political battle between the two states, with the crucial BBMB—a key body managing water and power resources for the region—at the centre of the conflict.
