Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Punjab to grant ownership rights on BBMB land in Nangal, Talwara: Harjot Bains
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, March 23, 2026: Punjab Education Minister and Sri Anandpur Sahib MLA Harjot Singh Bains on Sunday announced that the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government will soon confer ownership rights on shopkeepers, residents and occupants of surplus land in Nangal, Talwara and adjoining townships.
Bains asserted that the land belongs to Punjab and not the Bhakra Beas Management Board, adding that the move will end decades of uncertainty for thousands of families.
He informed that the Water Resources Department has already issued formal communication to BBMB regarding over 800 acres of surplus land.
“Our elders gave their land and labour for nation-building, yet for over 50 years, BBMB acted like a landlord,” Bains said, alleging that residents were subjected to prolonged uncertainty despite the authority’s limited operational role.
Recalling his earlier assurance, the minister said he had promised a permanent solution to affected families in Nangal, which is now being fulfilled.
He clarified that BBMB has no authority to frame lease policies for such land, as it was originally acquired from local residents for dam projects.
Outlining the proposed policy, Bains said the government is preparing a framework under which eligible occupants will be granted ownership rights upon payment of applicable stamp duty. “No one will be left in uncertainty,” he assured.
Calling the decision a “correction of a historical wrong,” Bains said the state government stands with families who had sacrificed their land for national development. He also announced that a new judicial complex has been planned for Nangal.