DW BUREAU / Gurugram

In a strong rebuttal to BJP MP Ravneet Singh Bittu's recent statement on Punjab's water issues, AAP MP Malvinder Singh Kang lambasted the BJP-led central government for its continued exploitation of Punjab's water.

Kang criticized Bittu for displaying what he termed as "sham concern" for Punjab while comfortably sitting in air-conditioned rooms in Delhi. He challenged Bittu, saying, "If you truly care about Punjab and its water, then follow the example of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who is personally standing guard at the Nangal Dam to protect Punjab's water. Empty words and statements will not suffice."

Highlighting the state's plight, Kang pointed out that Punjab has been bearing the expenses of Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), yet its water is being taken away through unconstitutional and illegal means under the BJP-led central government's directives. "It is shameful that while Punjab's Chief Minister has to personally intervene to safeguard our water, BJP leaders from Punjab remain silent spectators. Not a single BJP leader has raised their voice against this injustice," Kang remarked.

He accused the BJP of systematically undermining Punjab's rights and exploiting its natural resources. "Every day, BBMB officials?under instructions from the central government?are attempting to illegally siphon off Punjab's water. Our officers are being harassed and replaced, and this blatant high-handedness is being carried out with the BJP's approval," Kang stated.

Kang also called out Ravneet Bittu's repeated statements claiming Punjab's water won't be allowed to go to other states. "Your words are hollow when your party's government is actively robbing Punjab of its water through unconstitutional

methods," he said.

(editor@dailyworld.in)