Haryana CM Saini Calls Water Talks with Punjab Positive, Vows Strong Stand in Supreme Court

Chandigarh, August 5 — Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said Tuesday that the ongoing talks with Punjab on water sharing have taken a constructive turn, with both states engaging in dialogue marked by cooperation and goodwill.

Speaking to the media after a high-level meeting chaired by Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil in New Delhi, Saini described the atmosphere of the talks as more optimistic than ever. “Today marked a significant breakthrough. The discussion moved forward in a very positive and solution-focused manner,” he said.

He pointed out that the meeting held on July 9 had already signaled a shift toward mutual understanding, and the latest round further strengthened that trajectory. Saini affirmed Haryana’s resolve to put forth a well-argued and constructive case before the Supreme Court on August 13. “We are confident of receiving a just and favorable outcome,” he added.

Responding to a query on inter-state water matters, the Chief Minister clarified that the Indus Waters Treaty is a separate issue. He further noted that under the treaty’s provisions, Rajasthan too would be entitled to its rightful share of water.

The meeting was attended by top officials including Union Secretary Debashree Mukherjee, Chief Principal Secretary to the CM Rajesh Khullar, and Additional Chief Secretary for Irrigation and Water Resources Anurag Agarwal. Delegates from both Haryana and Punjab were present at the session.