“Erosion of Federal Balance”: Pargat Singh Expresses Concern Over Changes in BBMB Framework
Senior Congress leader and MLA Pargat Singh has raised serious concern over the reported modifications in the rules and administrative structure of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), stating that such developments risk weakening the constitutional spirit of cooperative federalism and Punjab’s established role in water governance.
City Air News
Apr 14, 2026 08:06
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Chandigarh, April 14, 2026: Senior Congress leader and MLA Pargat Singh has raised serious concern over the reported modifications in the rules and administrative structure of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), stating that such developments risk weakening the constitutional spirit of cooperative federalism and Punjab’s established role in water governance.
Responding to the issue, Pargat Singh said that any move aimed at diluting Punjab’s traditional stake in BBMB is troubling and must be subjected to immediate review through a transparent and consultative process.
He noted that the reported decision to open the post of “Member (Power)”—long associated with representation from Punjab—to officers of the All India cadre raises significant concerns regarding the safeguarding of Punjab’s rights in institutions managing water and power resources.
Pargat Singh stressed that BBMB is not merely an administrative mechanism but a vital institution linked to Punjab’s agricultural economy, irrigation requirements, and its contribution to national food security. He warned that unilateral alterations in its structure could disturb the delicate equilibrium of cooperative federal governance.
He further cautioned that decisions impacting water management without proper consultation with stakeholder states may intensify unease among farmers and the wider public, especially at a time when water-sharing matters remain highly sensitive.
Calling for an immediate reassessment of the reported changes, he urged the Central Government to engage in meaningful dialogue with all concerned parties, uphold transparency in governance, and adhere strictly to constitutional principles in matters relating to inter-state river and power institutions.
He reiterated that Punjab’s rightful claims over its natural resources must be protected in both principle and practice, and that no administrative restructuring should weaken the state’s legitimate participation in BBMB.
