J&K CM Omar Abdullah rejects proposal to divert water to Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan
PTC News Desk: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly objected the proposed 113-kilometre canal project aimed at diverting surplus water from the Union Territory’s share of the Indus river system to neighbouring states of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.
In a forceful statement, Abdullah firmly opposed the proposal, saying, “I will never allow this. Our priority should be using the water for ourselves first. Jammu is facing a drought-like situation — why should I divert water to Punjab?”
The project aims to tap surplus water from the western rivers of the Indus basin — Jhelum, Chenab, and Indus — which pass through Jammu and Kashmir. The central government reportedly sees the canal as a means to ensure fair distribution and boost irrigation in northern India.
Abdullah, however, challenged the proposal’s fairness, citing historical grievances: “Punjab already received water under the Indus Water Treaty. Did they ever help us when we needed water?” he said, pointing to a lack of reciprocal support during water shortages in J&K. His comments have sparked political controversy, with opposition leaders in Punjab and Haryana accusing him of using a shared national resource for regional political gain. In contrast, political leaders in Jammu have largely supported his position, citing worsening water shortages and growing agricultural distress.
As tensions rise, experts foresee a broader debate emerging on inter-state water sharing, federal powers, and the long-term governance of the Indus river system in India.
- PTC NEWS
