Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Punjab CM Mann accuses farmer unions of silence in water row: "They run their own shops"
Babushahi Bureau
Nangal (Punjab), May 11, 2025 — In a fiery statement from the protest site at Nangal Dam, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann lashed out at farmer organizations, accusing them of being silent on the ongoing water dispute and acting in self-interest.
Mann, who reached Nangal in support of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers protesting against the alleged water encroachment by BBMB, questioned the conspicuous absence of farmer unions.
“Not a single organization has issued a statement in support of Punjab’s water. This makes it clear—they are only interested in running their own shops,” Mann said.
Reiterating the state government's commitment to safeguarding Punjab's water for agriculture, Mann said, “We are fighting to save water for the fields. But those who once used to sit on old drains in protest have now vanished. Where are they now?”
In a sharp escalation, the Chief Minister warned that public sentiment could soon turn against these farmer bodies. “They will now face public opposition too. People will soon realize who is standing where.”
Taking a direct jab at the protest style of some unions, Mann added, “There’s no AC here, no air-conditioned trolleys—perhaps that’s why they chose not to show up.”
Mann's comments come at a time when water politics in Punjab has once again taken center stage, with BBMB’s alleged overreach drawing sharp criticism from the state.
The remarks have triggered mixed reactions, with some questioning the wisdom of targeting farmer organizations that played a crucial role in past agitations, including the 2020–21 farmers’ protest.