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 has sparked a controversy in the region. Abdullah stated that his government will not share any water with Punjab, citing concerns over the state’s own water needs. However, a senior leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal, Daljit Singh Cheema, has strongly condemned Abdullah’s remark, calling it “unreasonable” and “unjustified”.
Speaking to ANI, Cheema said, “We did not expect Omar Abdullah to comment on Punjab, as river water distribution has earlier also been in favour of other states like Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi. Why is Punjab being singled out?” He further added, “We have always been committed to the welfare of the people of Punjab and will continue to fight for their rights.”
Cheema’s remarks come at a time when the issue of water sharing between Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab is already a contentious one. The two states have been at loggerheads over the sharing of the waters of the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers, which flow through their territories.
The controversy surrounding the sharing of these rivers dates back to the 1960s, when the Punjab Chief Minister, Pratap Singh Kairon, refused to share the waters of the Ravi River with Jammu and Kashmir. Since then, the issue has been a major point of contention between the two states.
In recent years, the situation has become even more complicated, with the construction of several hydroelectric projects in the region. These projects have resulted in a significant reduction in the flow of water into the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers, causing concerns over the long-term viability of the water sharing agreement.
The Akali Dal leader’s criticism of Abdullah’s statement is not without merit. The Chief Minister’s comments have been seen as a clear attempt to divert attention from the state’s own water woes. Jammu and Kashmir is facing a severe water crisis, with many areas of the state experiencing drought-like conditions.
In addition to this, the state is also struggling to provide adequate drinking water to its citizens. The situation is so dire that many areas of the state are forced to rely on tankers for their water needs.
Meanwhile, Punjab is also facing its own set of water challenges. The state is already reeling from the effects of a severe drought, which has resulted in a significant reduction in the flow of water into its rivers and canals.
In light of these circumstances, Cheema’s criticism of Abdullah’s statement is understandable. The Akali Dal leader is right in saying that Punjab should not be singled out for water sharing. Instead, the state should be treated on an equal footing with other states in the region.
Moreover, Cheema’s remarks also highlight the need for a more equitable and sustainable solution to the water sharing problem. Rather than focusing on short-term gains, both Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab should work together to find a long-term solution that benefits all parties involved.
In conclusion, the recent statement made by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is unreasonable and unjustified. The Akali Dal leader’s criticism of Abdullah’s statement is well-founded and highlights the need for a more equitable and sustainable solution to the water sharing problem.
The controversy surrounding the sharing of the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and negotiation. Rather than resorting to rhetoric and grandstanding, the leaders of Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab should work together to find a solution that benefits all parties involved.
