The dispute between Punjab and Rajasthan governments regarding the water of Sutlej river has deepened. The Rajasthan government has now responded to Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann’s demand for royalty of Rs 1.44 lakh crore on Sutlej river water. Bhajanlal Sharma government of Rajasthan has said that demanding royalty for water is completely wrong.
The British government had made an agreement in the year 1920
The British government had made a compromise in the year 1920. Providing or withholding water is not the responsibility of any one state but of the Centre. The Central Water Commission monitors it. Rajasthan Water Resources Department Minister Suresh Rawat said, “One state cannot take money from another state in exchange for water.” No money is made from any kind of royalty.
Rajasthan government will not give any money in exchange for water – Suresh Rawat
Rajasthan Minister Suresh Rawat further said, “Rajasthan government will not give any money in exchange for water. This is a complete political conspiracy. Bhagwant Mann is trying to create an atmosphere in Punjab before the elections. Rajasthan government is ready for meetings and talks but will not give any money. Despite the controversy, there will be no problem of drinking water in Rajasthan. Rajasthan has enough water for this summer season.
What did Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann say?
Whereas, the Chief Minister of Punjab Bhagwant Maan Had said, “During the British era, under the agreement signed with Bikaner in 1920, 18,000 cusecs of water was continuously provided from Punjab till 1960, but after the Indus Water Agreement, no mention was made of this arrangement. If we calculate the dues from 1960 to 2026, then Rajasthan owes Punjab Rs 1.44 lakh crore.