SYL Canal dispute: Punjab CM summons urgent Cabinet meeting after recent SC hearing on SYL canal issue

Chandigarh, October 05: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took swift action following a crucial Supreme Court hearing on the SYL (Sutlej-Yamuna Link) case, calling for an emergency Cabinet meeting on Thursday at 10 am. While the official agenda for the meeting has not been circulated, highly placed sources suggest that the primary focus will be on addressing the SYL issue, a contentious matter that has long strained relations between Punjab and its neighboring states.

The SYL canal dispute centers around the allocation of water resources from the Sutlej and Yamuna rivers. This issue has been a source of tension between Punjab and its neighboring states, particularly Haryana, for several decades. The Supreme Court's recent directives in the case have intensified the urgency for Punjab to consider its stance.

In addition to the SYL issue, the Cabinet meeting is expected to deliberate on potential changes in the office of the Advocate General of Punjab. Vinod Ghai, the current Advocate General, has faced scrutiny and criticism in the aftermath of controversies surrounding the recent Panchayat elections. There are strong indications that Vinod Ghai may be replaced, and the name of Gurminder Singh is reportedly being considered as a potential replacement.

Another crucial matter on the agenda will be discussions regarding the alleged persecution of AAP (Aam Aadmi Party) leaders by various government agencies, purportedly at the behest of the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party). The AAP, which holds power in Punjab, has accused the BJP of orchestrating politically motivated actions against its members and leaders. This topic is expected to be a focal point of discussion in the Cabinet meeting.

Following the Cabinet meeting, the Punjab unit of the AAP is planning a protest outside the BJP office in Chandigarh. This demonstration is intended to draw attention to the perceived political vendetta and harassment faced by AAP leaders and members.

The recent Supreme Court hearing on the SYL case has added further complexity to the ongoing water dispute. The Supreme Court has instructed the Union of India to conduct a survey of the land designated for the SYL canal's construction in Punjab to ascertain the progress of the project. The Punjab government has been directed to cooperate fully with the survey.

In the wake of the Supreme Court hearing, both the opposition Congress party and the Akali Dal have criticized the AAP government for allegedly failing to adequately defend Punjab's interests in the apex court. The matter is of utmost importance to the state, as it involves the allocation of land and water resources, which have significant economic and political implications.

Notably, in November 2016, ownership rights to a substantial portion of the land earmarked for the SYL canal were de-notified, following the Supreme Court's declaration that the Punjab Termination of Water Agreements Act, 2004, was invalid. This action impacted 4,627 acres and one kanal and two marla of land, returning ownership rights to the landowners. The remaining land includes canals and distributaries vital for irrigation in Ropar, Mohali, Patiala, and Fatehgarh Sahib.

Given the gravity of the situation and the evolving legal landscape, highly placed government sources have indicated that a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly) could be convened next week to address these pressing issues and chart a course of action for the state.