The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has found itself in a political storm in Punjab over a 100-year-old canal project. What was planned as a symbolic celebration quickly turned into a controversy, ultimately forcing Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal to abruptly cancel his visit and return to Delhi.
The Root of the Controversy: Punjab’s Water Sensitivities
The Gang Canal, built during the British era, carries water from Punjab to parts of Rajasthan. For decades, many farmer groups and political voices in Punjab have argued that such canal systems have reduced water availability in the state, especially in tail-end farming regions.
So when the central government decided to mark the canal’s centenary, several organisations and local leaders saw it as “insensitive” to Punjab’s ongoing water crisis. Farmer groups strongly objected, calling the celebration a reminder of how Punjab’s water resources were diverted to other regions.
Rising Backlash Pushes BJP on the Defensive
As protests and objections grew, the BJP swiftly moved into damage-control mode.
Arjun Ram Meghwal reached Punjab for the event, but sensing the tense atmosphere, he didn’t even step out of the airport. Within hours, he boarded a flight back to Delhi.
The party later clarified that the event had not been coordinated with its Punjab leadership, adding that “local sentiments must be respected.”
Why the BJP Is Said to Be “In Deep Water”
-
Water politics in Punjab is extremely sensitive, tied closely with farmers’ interests and state identity.
-
The BJP has already faced criticism over several farmer-related issues in the region in recent months.
-
The cancelled celebration has raised questions about coordination between central and state units of the party.
-
The incident has reinforced the belief that any move involving water sharing or historic irrigation systems must be handled with utmost caution.
A Bigger Message for the Future
This episode highlights a larger reality:
In states like Punjab, issues related to water rights, canals, inter-state sharing, and irrigation history carry deep emotional and political weight. Any governmental move—even a symbolic celebration—can trigger backlash if it touches these sensitive areas.
For the BJP, the challenge ahead will be to balance national initiatives with regional sentiments, especially in a state where water is not just a resource but a matter of identity and survival.
The Media Times – Unfiltered. Unbiased. Unstoppable.
The Media Times stands as a pillar of fearless journalism, committed to delivering raw, unfiltered, and unbiased news. In a world saturated with noise, we cut through the clutter, bringing facts to the forefront without agenda or compromise.From hard-hitting investigative reports to thought-provoking analysis, we cover politics, healthcare, business, technology, entertainment and global affairs with an unwavering commitment to truth. Our team of dedicated journalists and experts works relentlessly to challenge narratives, expose realities, and hold power accountable.At The Media Times, we don’t just report the news—we shape conversations, spark change, and empower the public with knowledge.
Hindi 
English