Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Opposes Centre's Deployment of CISF at Nangal Dam
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday strongly criticized the central government’s decision to deploy 296 personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to secure the Nangal dam, questioning the necessity of the move when Punjab Police is already handling the dam’s security.
Speaking to the media in Sangrur, Mann expressed his opposition to the Centre’s directive, stating that the deployment would come at a significant financial cost—approximately ₹8.58 crore annually. He revealed a copy of the Centre’s communication, which directed the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) to deposit ₹8,58,69,600 for the CISF contingent.
“They are asking either the BBMB or the Punjab government to bear this expense. What is the need for this when Punjab Police is securing the dam free of cost? Why should we pay?” Mann questioned.
The Chief Minister said he would bring up the issue directly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the upcoming NITI Aayog meeting on Saturday. He also criticized the move as an encroachment on Punjab’s jurisdiction, suggesting that it could be a ploy to interfere in the state’s water rights amid an ongoing dispute with Haryana over water sharing.
“The Centre must clarify its intent. Does it plan to take control of our water? We will not allow this to happen,” Mann stated firmly. He added that the state government would not permit the payment to be made either through the BBMB or from Punjab’s state funds.
Challenging the logic behind the deployment, Mann asked whether the Centre believed that Punjab Police were incapable of protecting the dam. He pointed out that if Punjab can safeguard the international border, it is more than capable of handling the security of a dam within its territory.
Mann also directed his criticism toward Punjab BJP leaders, including state BJP president Sunil Jakhar, questioning whether they endorsed the Centre’s decision.
The Nangal dam, located downstream of the Bhakra dam in Rupnagar district, is currently under the protection of Punjab Police. Security at the site had already been tightened following Punjab’s refusal to release additional water to Haryana.
Calling for an immediate reversal of the decision, Mann warned that any attempt to bypass the state’s authority or compromise its resources would be firmly resisted.
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