Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday declared that the state government will pursue its claim for unpaid water usage, emphasizing that Punjab demands Rajasthan water payment totaling ₹1.44 lakh crore for decades of water drawn through the Ferozepur Feeder. He urged Rajasthan to either release Punjab’s rightful dues or halt drawing water while calling for a review of the historic 1920 agreement.
Interacting with the media, CM Mann said, “The Rajasthan Government owes Punjab for water drawn since 1960. Our government is firm that Punjab demands Rajasthan water payment, and we will take all necessary steps to recover it.”
Historical Context
The 1920 agreement, signed between the state of Bikaner, the erstwhile Punjab, and the British, mandated payment on a per-acre basis. CM Mann explained, “Payments were made until 1960, but after the Indus Waters Treaty, Rajasthan continued to draw 18,000 cusecs of water without paying. This is why Punjab demands Rajasthan water payment today.”
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He highlighted the contradiction in Rajasthan’s position: “While they continue to draw water under the 1920 agreement, Rajasthan cites the 1960 arrangement to avoid payment. Previous governments never canceled the 1920 agreement, and they failed to enforce the periodic review every 25 years.”
Steps Taken
CM Mann confirmed that Punjab has written to the Rajasthan Government requesting a meeting to discuss the matter. “We have also approached the Union Government to support Punjab’s claim. Our position is clear: Punjab demands Rajasthan water payment, and we will pursue it in every appropriate forum.”
Calculating dues from 1960 to 2026, the CM said Rajasthan owes Punjab ₹1.44 lakh crore, emphasizing the state’s unwavering stance. “These are not just numbers; they represent Punjab’s rightful resources. We will leave no stone unturned to ensure Punjab demands Rajasthan water payment is fully realized,” he added.
By insisting on a review of the 1920 agreement and seeking payment, the Punjab Government is determined to settle this decades-long dispute and secure the state’s financial and water interests.