States » NorthPosted at: Oct 26 2026 7:42PM


Punjab CM Mann accuses BJP of targeting state's water, university and financial rights

Chandigarh, Oct 26 (UNI) Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday accused the BJP-led central government of undermining Punjab's financial and institutional rights, alleging that disputes over river waters, Panjab University and outstanding central dues were being exploited for political gains ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
Mann claimed that the Centre had withheld Punjab's Rural Development Fund (RDF) and Value Added Tax (VAT) dues for four-and-a-half years, adversely affecting development projects and rural infrastructure.
"The BJP is seeking votes while conspiring to snatch Panjab University, Chandigarh and Punjab's water. Depriving Punjab of its legitimate rights has become an old habit of the BJP," Mann told reporters in Patiala.
The chief minister said Punjab's contribution to national food security and defence made the alleged denial of its financial entitlements particularly unjustified.
He maintained that Panjab University was closely connected to Punjab's academic heritage, while river waters remained essential for the state's agricultural economy.
"Punjab will never allow any political party to compromise its interests or undermine the rights of its people," he said.
Mann also attacked the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and BJP over Punjab's drug problem, accusing the former allies of failing to contain narcotics trafficking during their previous tenure in power.
He claimed that the two parties were preparing to contest elections together again despite their political differences.
"The Akalis and the BJP pushed Punjab into the drug menace during their rule. Now they are preparing to join hands again for electoral gains," Mann alleged.
The allegations concerning responsibility for the drug trade and a possible renewed electoral alliance were not independently established.
The chief minister also dismissed opposition criticism of his government, claiming that continued public support for the Aam Aadmi Party had unsettled its political rivals.
He said the government would continue demanding the release of outstanding funds while defending Punjab's water resources and institutions.
The remarks reflect the growing political confrontation between the AAP government and opposition parties over federal finances, water-sharing disputes and governance ahead of the next state elections.
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Tags: #Punjab CM Mann accuses BJP of targeting state's water# university and financial rights
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