Punjab Government argues that BBMB violated procedural norms by failing to consult the state before executing water release measures.

In a significant escalation of the ongoing water dispute, the Punjab Government has filed a review petition in the High Court, challenging the May 6 court order concerning the Bhakra Beas Management Board’s (BBMB) water release operations. The state government has accused BBMB of illegally releasing water from the Nangal Dam without proper authorization and of allegedly misleading the court on vital aspects of the case.

The legal development comes as political tensions continue to mount, with Education Minister Harjot Bains leading a sit-in protest by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers at the Nangal Dam site. The dharna has now entered its third day, with protestors demanding accountability and transparency from the central water management authority.

In its petition, the Punjab Government argues that the BBMB has violated procedural norms by failing to consult the state before executing water release measures. The petition seeks a revision or reversal of the May 6 directive, asserting that the interests and legal rights of Punjab were disregarded.

"The state remains committed to protecting Punjab’s share of water and will not allow any agency to act unilaterally in such a crucial matter," a senior government official said.

The High Court is expected to review the matter later this week as legal and political pressures converge over river water management in the region.