CM Mann targets rivals, says no extra water for Haryana

March 30, 2026

Patiala (Punjab): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday intensified his attack on opposition parties during a public address in Sanaur, alleging a political nexus between the Shiromani Akali Dal and the Congress while firmly reiterating his government’s stance on the ongoing water dispute with Haryana.

Mann Targets Akali Dal, Congress Alliance

Addressing a gathering, Mann accused leaders of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Congress of working together behind the scenes. He claimed that despite projecting themselves as rivals, both parties have “joined hands” politically to oppose the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab.

The Chief Minister said that such alliances are aimed at misleading the public and regaining lost political ground in the state. His remarks come amid increasing political activity ahead of upcoming electoral contests.

Firm Stand on Punjab-Haryana Water Dispute

Taking a strong position on the water-sharing issue, Mann declared that Punjab would not provide any additional water to Haryana. He asserted that the state does not have surplus water and has already fulfilled its allocated share.

Mann reiterated that Haryana had already utilised its allotted quota earlier than expected and was now seeking extra supply, which Punjab cannot afford to provide.

He emphasized that Punjab’s farmers and residents must be prioritised, especially given the declining water levels in reservoirs and increasing demand within the state.

‘Not a Drop More’ Statement Draws Attention

In a strong statement, Mann said that Punjab would not give “even a drop of extra water” to Haryana, reinforcing his government’s consistent stance on the issue.

This remark has once again brought the long-standing river water dispute between the two states into focus. The issue has been politically sensitive for decades, with both states asserting their rights over river waters.

Background of Water Sharing Tensions

The Punjab-Haryana water dispute revolves around the allocation of river waters, including issues linked to canal systems like the Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal.

Punjab has repeatedly argued that it does not have excess water to share, citing legal, environmental, and agricultural concerns. Previous statements by Mann have also highlighted that the state’s water resources are already under stress and must be conserved for its own needs.

Political Messaging Ahead of Elections

Mann’s remarks are being seen as part of a broader political strategy to consolidate support among farmers and rural voters, for whom water remains a critical issue.

By attacking opposition parties and taking a strong stand on resource sharing, the AAP government is positioning itself as a defender of Punjab’s interests.

Opposition parties, however, have often accused the government of politicising the issue and failing to find a long-term solution.

The Sanaur address by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann highlights the intersection of political rivalry and resource disputes in Punjab. With strong statements against both opposition parties and Haryana, the issue of water sharing is set to remain a key political flashpoint in the region in the coming months.