Chandigarh, May 3, 2025 — The Punjab government is reportedly preparing to boycott the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) meeting scheduled for 5 PM today, intensifying the ongoing dispute over the Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal and water-sharing issues.
The decision, yet to be officially confirmed, follows an all-party meeting in Haryana earlier today where leaders unanimously demanded the implementation of the BBMB’s April 23 decision to release Haryana’s share of river water. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini accused Punjab of acting “unconstitutionally” by allegedly holding back the agreed water quota.
Sources suggest that Punjab’s absence from the key BBMB meeting could further deepen the inter-state standoff and delay attempts at a negotiated resolution. The BBMB is responsible for the regulation of water and power from the Bhakra and Beas rivers, and its meetings are crucial for maintaining equitable resource distribution among partner states.
The SYL canal issue has long been a flashpoint between Punjab and Haryana, with both sides standing firm on their respective claims. The reported boycott signals worsening relations and heightened political friction just as summer water demands rise across northern India.
