J&K CM’s remark on water sharing unreasonable: Akali Dal leader
The recent remark made by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has sparked a controversy in the political circles of the region. While speaking in an interview, Abdullah had stated that his government will not share any water with Punjab, which has invited sharp criticism from Shiromani Akali Dal leader Daljit Singh Cheema. In an interview with ANI, Cheema expressed his disappointment and frustration over Abdullah’s statement, calling it “unreasonable” and “unjustified”.
According to Cheema, the remark was not only unexpected but also showcased a lack of understanding of the long-standing water sharing agreements between the two states. He pointed out that the river water distribution has been in favor of other states like Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi in the past, and therefore, Abdullah’s statement seemed to be a departure from the existing norms.
Cheema further added that the Akali Dal has always been a strong advocate for the rights of Punjab and its people, and it will not hesitate to take up the matter with the central government if necessary. He emphasized that the water sharing agreements are not only a matter of interstate relations but also have a significant impact on the economy and livelihood of the people of Punjab.
The Akali Dal leader also recalled the historical significance of the water sharing agreements between Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir, which were made in the 1960s and 1970s. He argued that these agreements were made in the spirit of mutual cooperation and trust, and therefore, Abdullah’s statement seemed to be a betrayal of that trust.
It is worth noting that the water sharing agreements between Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir are governed by the Indus Waters Treaty, which was signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan. The treaty allocates the waters of the Indus and its tributaries between the two countries, with India having the right to use the waters of the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers, among others.
In recent years, there have been several disputes over the implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty, with both India and Pakistan accusing each other of violating the treaty. However, the recent remark by Abdullah has added a new dimension to the issue, with the Akali Dal leader calling for a review of the water sharing agreements between the two states.
The controversy has also sparked a debate on the political implications of Abdullah’s statement. While some have seen it as a desperate attempt to garner support ahead of the upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir, others have viewed it as a bold move to challenge the existing power dynamics in the region.
In conclusion, the remark made by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on water sharing with Punjab has sparked a controversy that has far-reaching implications for the region. While Abdullah’s statement has been met with criticism from Akali Dal leaders, it has also highlighted the need for a review of the water sharing agreements between the two states. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether Abdullah’s statement will have any lasting impact on the relationship between Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir.
