CHANDIGARH, April 14, 2026: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab has strongly opposed the BJP-led central government’s amendment in the rules related to appointments in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), calling it an attempt to weaken Punjab’s rights and gain control over its key resources.
Party leaders said the move reflects a pattern where the Centre is trying to interfere in state matters and reduce the autonomy of Punjab.
AAP Calls Move an Attack on Federal Structure
Punjab Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains criticised the decision, stating that the amendment clearly shows the Centre’s intention to undermine Punjab.
He said the move is a direct attack on the federal structure of the country and questioned the timing of the decision, noting that it was taken on the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who envisioned a strong federal system.
Bains added that Punjab’s water management is closely linked to BBMB, and removing the requirement of appointing a Punjabi officer could harm the state’s interests. He warned that appointing officers without local understanding may increase risks and weaken Punjab’s control over its resources.
Concerns Over Water Control and Resource Management
Cabinet Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said that since the formation of BBMB in 1974, there had been a clear arrangement where the Member (Power) was from Punjab and the Member (Irrigation) from Haryana.
He alleged that the Centre has now changed the rules by replacing strict provisions with flexible terms like “preference,” which could allow appointments of its choice.
Goyal also pointed out that Punjab had already opposed increasing the number of board members due to financial burden, but its concerns were ignored.
He further raised concerns about the deployment of CISF at dams, stating that it has increased financial pressure on Punjab despite earlier efficient security arrangements.
AAP Accuses Centre of Targeting Punjab’s Interests
AAP Punjab Media In-charge Baltej Pannu said that the rule changes are unacceptable and aimed at taking control over Punjab’s water resources.
He claimed that opening key posts to outsiders is part of a larger strategy to weaken Punjab’s authority over its institutions.
Pannu also alleged that the BJP is trying to interfere in multiple issues related to Punjab, including water, institutions and administrative control.
AAP Vows to Defend Punjab’s Rights
AAP leaders said that the party and people of Punjab will strongly oppose any attempt to harm the state’s interests.
They asserted that Punjab will not allow any compromise on its rights, especially regarding water resources, and promised to raise the issue at all levels.
The party reiterated its commitment to protecting Punjab’s federal rights and ensuring that the interests of farmers and citizens remain safeguarded.
