The Bhakra Dam, a monumental infrastructure project on the Satluj River in Himachal Pradesh, plays a pivotal role in water distribution and hydroelectric power generation for multiple northern Indian states. Managed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), the dam's operations are critical to regional stability and resource management. Recently, a significant legal development arose when the Punjab & Haryana High Court addressed the extent of Punjab Police's authority concerning the dam's operations. This judicial intervention was prompted by allegations that Punjab Police personnel had interfered with BBMB's functions, particularly concerning water release to Haryana.
Background of the Dispute
On May 1, 2025, the BBMB reported that Punjab Police had allegedly taken control of the Nangal Dam and Lohand Control Room Water Regulation Offices, obstructing the scheduled release of 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana. This action followed a BBMB meeting on April 30, where the water release was decided upon. Punjab's objection to this decision led to the reported interference. The BBMB contended that such actions by the Punjab Police were unconstitutional and impeded the Board's statutory responsibilities.
High Court's Ruling
The Punjab & Haryana High Court, comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sumeet Goel, delivered a decisive verdict on the matter. The Court emphasized that while the Punjab Police could provide security to BBMB personnel and infrastructure, they had no authority to interfere with the day-to-day operations and management of the Bhakra Dam and related water regulation offices. The Court's directives included:
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Restraining Punjab and its functionaries, including police personnel, from interfering in BBMB's operations.
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Allowing Punjab to extend security to BBMB as per legal provisions.
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Mandating Punjab to adhere to decisions from the May 2, 2025, meeting chaired by the Home Secretary of India.
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Providing Punjab the option to represent any disagreements to the Central Government through the BBMB Chairman, as per the 1974 Rules.
Legal and Administrative Implications
This ruling reinforces the autonomy of BBMB in managing the Bhakra Dam's operations without undue interference from state authorities. It underscores the importance of adhering to established legal frameworks and inter-state agreements concerning shared resources. The Court's decision also highlights the role of the Central Government in resolving disputes arising from such inter-state collaborations.
Conclusion
The High Court's intervention serves as a critical reminder of the sanctity of institutional autonomy and the necessity for states to operate within the bounds of their jurisdiction. As water resources become increasingly contentious, such judicial clarifications are vital to ensure equitable and lawful management of shared assets like the Bhakra Dam.
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