Centre Deploys CISF at Bhakra Dam Amid Escalating Punjab-Haryana Water Dispute

Nangal, May 21, 2025: Amid rising tensions between Punjab and Haryana over the release of water from the Bhakra Dam, the Union Government has deployed 296 Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel to guard the critical infrastructure. The deployment, approved by the Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to ensure the safety and security of the dam amid growing political and public unrest.

The move comes after Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) Chairman Manoj Tripathi was reportedly gheraoed by protesters while supervising the release of additional water to Haryana, further escalating the situation. As per the official order, the BBMB has been directed to provide the necessary logistical support including accommodation, transport, communication tools, and security gear to the deployed CISF personnel.

The water dispute intensified after Haryana requested an emergency release of 10,300 cusecs from the Bhakra Main Line to meet its irrigation and drinking water requirements. Punjab opposed the request, accusing Haryana of overdrawing its share and citing alarmingly low water levels in the Bhakra reservoir.

Tensions further deepened when the BBMB decided to release an additional 4,500 cusecs to Haryana, a move that Punjab labeled unauthorized and legally untenable. In response, the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed the Centre to submit records of a crucial meeting held on May 2 under the Union Home Secretary, during which the water release was allegedly formalized. The court has also sought clarity on the dispute resolution mechanism between partner states under the BBMB framework.

The deployment of central forces marks an extraordinary step, underscoring the seriousness of the issue and the need to maintain law and order at a time when inter-state coordination remains strained.