PM Modi talks about saving petrol-diesel while touring Netherlands: CM Mann
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, May 16, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday launched a sharp attack on the Central government over rising fuel prices and also took a firm stand on the ongoing water-sharing issue involving Haryana and the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).
Criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mann said that while the Prime Minister advises citizens to save petrol and diesel and encourages “work from home,” he himself is currently on a visit to the Netherlands.
The Chief Minister alleged that fuel prices were increased again immediately after elections, placing an additional burden on the public. He accused the Centre of ignoring the hardships faced by common people due to inflation and rising living costs.
Taking a strong stand on the water-sharing dispute, Mann said Punjab would not provide “even a single extra drop” of its share of water to Haryana beyond the officially allocated quota.
Referring to the Bhakra Beas Management Board issue, the Chief Minister stated that Haryana would receive only its fixed annual share from June 21 onward and no additional water would be supplied before that date. He added that Punjab would not bow to pressure “even if central security forces are deployed.”
Mann also expressed confidence regarding the upcoming municipal corporation and municipal council elections in Punjab. Claiming that opposition parties would face a major defeat, he said the public continues to support the Aam Aadmi Party government because of initiatives such as free electricity, employment opportunities and the removal of toll plazas.
The Chief Minister mocked opposition parties, asserting that no rival party currently stands strong enough to challenge AAP in Punjab.