CHANDIGARH: Commending the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's unwavering commitment to protecting Punjab's water resources, Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday demanded accountability from opposition parties, especially Congress party for historical blunders in tackling water issues of the state besides daring them to apologize to people of the state for their misdeeds.
Addressing the Punjab Assembly during the debate on resolution brought by the state government to protect state rights regarding Punjab's waters, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that the Chief Minister's stance on the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) issue has set a great example, showcasing his dedication to the state's interests.
Criticizing the previous governments, including the Congress Party, Akali Dal, and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for their historic role in selling out Punjab's water resources, the Finance Minister urged the opposition parties especially Congress party to acknowledge their mistakes and apologize to the people of Punjab for their actions. "I implore you to stand before this House and apologize to the people of Punjab, " said Cheema.
Minister Cheema also condemned the central government, led by the BJP, for its ongoing "attacks" on Punjab, citing the reduction of the state's borrowing limit and the implementation of "black farm laws". "The central government, under the BJP, is relentlessly targeting Punjab, " said Cheema while adding that the Aam Aadmi Party, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's leadership, will resolutely defend state against these attacks.
In a significant development, Finance Minister Cheema also requested the Punjab and Haryana High Court to take cognizance of the state's water issue, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to protect Punjab's interests. He noted that the Assembly's unified stance on this issue demonstrates the state's resolve to safeguard its resources.
The Finance Minister concluded by thanking Chief Minister Mann for his courageous stand and assuring the House that the Aam Aadmi Party will continue to work tirelessly to protect Punjab's rights and interests. He also extended his sincere gratitude to all political parties for their unified commitment to safeguarding Punjab's waters.