Central Overreach on Bhakra Dam: SKM Accuses Modi Govt of Undermining Federalism

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New Delhi: The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has strongly condemned the Union Government’s unilateral decision to hand over the security of the Bhakra Dam to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). Terming the move as authoritarian and unconstitutional, SKM stated that it undermines the federal structure enshrined in the Constitution and furthers the dangerous trend of centralisation of power in the hands of the Union Government.

While opposing this step, SKM also disapproved of the Punjab Police and ruling party workers forcefully taking over BBMB installations under the leadership of the Chief Minister. SKM emphasised that such politically motivated actions erode democratic norms and intensify tensions between States.

SKM alleged that recent administrative decisions by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) have been biased and taken under direct influence from the BJP-led Union Government.

The Dam Safety Act, passed by the Centre, has been held directly responsible for enabling such encroachments on State rights. SKM has reiterated its demand for the immediate repeal of the Dam Safety Act, calling it a violation of States’ constitutional autonomy.

Highlighting the politicisation of interstate water disputes, especially between Punjab and Haryana, SKM stated that such issues should be resolved using scientific, rational, and people-centric approaches. It alleged that the current conflict over Bhakra-Beas waters is being escalated due to hidden political interests of the ruling BJP at the Centre.

SKM expressed serious concern over the worsening water crisis in northwest India due to groundwater depletion and pollution. It urged both Union and State governments to adopt a multi-layered and sustainable water management policy, including Conservation and utilisation of rainwater, Scientific management of rivers and canals, Flood control with insurance coverage for damages, Rational and fair resolution of water-sharing disputes

SKM also stressed the urgent need for: Watershed development and rainwater harvesting to recharge groundwater, the Promotion of sustainable, environment-friendly farming, the Enactment of a law to guarantee crop procurement as per the Swaminathan formula, Ensuring food security without ecological compromise

Finally, SKM reiterated its commitment to pressure both Union and State governments to resolve the water crisis in a non-discriminatory manner and warned citizens to stay alert against divisive tactics, especially those aimed at turning farmers of neighbouring States against one another.

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