Title: J&K CM’s remark on water sharing unreasonable: Akali Dal leader
The recent statement made by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, claiming that he will not share any water with Punjab, has sparked a heated debate in the region. In response to Abdullah’s comments, Shiromani Akali Dal leader Daljit Singh Cheema has termed the remark as “unreasonable” and “illogical”.
In an interview with ANI, Cheema expressed his disappointment and surprise at Abdullah’s comment, stating that they did not expect him to comment on Punjab, as river water distribution has historically been in favor of other states like Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi. He emphasized that Punjab has been a major contributor to the national water system and has always shared its water resources with other states.
Cheema also pointed out that Punjab has been facing severe water scarcity issues in recent years, and Abdullah’s statement has only added to the woes of the state. He urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to reconsider its stance and work towards a more equitable water sharing arrangement.
The issue of water sharing has been a contentious topic between Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir for several years. The two states have been at loggerheads over the sharing of the waters of the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers, which are the main sources of water for both states.
Punjab has been accusing Jammu and Kashmir of not sharing its water resources, leading to a severe water crisis in the state. On the other hand, Jammu and Kashmir has been claiming that Punjab is not releasing its share of water, leading to a shortage of water in the state.
The dispute has been ongoing for several years, with both states failing to reach a consensus on the issue. The matter has been taken up several times by the Supreme Court, which has directed the two states to work out a mutually agreeable solution.
In light of Abdullah’s recent statement, it appears that the issue is far from being resolved. Cheema’s reaction to the statement highlights the frustration and disappointment felt by the people of Punjab at the Jammu and Kashmir government’s stance.
It is essential to note that the issue of water sharing is not unique to Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. India has been facing a severe water crisis, with several states struggling to meet their water needs. The shortage of water has led to a significant impact on agriculture, industry, and everyday life.
In recent years, there have been several initiatives taken by the central government to address the issue of water sharing. The government has established the National Water Mission, which aims to develop sustainable water management practices and ensure equitable distribution of water resources.
The mission has also launched several programs to improve water efficiency, including the National Water Conservation Plan, which aims to conserve 10% of the country’s water resources. The government has also launched the Jal Jeevan Mission, which aims to provide piped water supply to every household in the country.
In addition to these initiatives, there have been several state-specific programs launched to address the issue of water sharing. For example, the Punjab government has launched the Bhakra Beas Management Board, which aims to manage the waters of the Bhakra and Beas rivers in a more efficient manner.
In conclusion, the recent statement made by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has sparked a heated debate in the region. The Akali Dal leader’s reaction to the statement highlights the frustration and disappointment felt by the people of Punjab at the Jammu and Kashmir government’s stance. It is essential for the two states to work together to find a solution to the issue of water sharing, as it is crucial for the development and growth of both states.
News Source:
https://x.com/ANI/status/1935953245043933487
