Tensions over the SYL canal eased Tuesday as Punjab’s Bhagwant Mann and Haryana’s Nayab Singh Saini met in Chandigarh, vowing collaborative solutions to the decades-old water row.
Post-meeting, Mann set a reconciliatory tone. Drawing from Sikh history, he said, ‘We are heirs to Bhai Kanhaiya, who quenched enemies’ thirst. Haryana remains our sibling, not foe.’ He framed water as a worldwide quandary, urging strategic handling.
The dialogue covered familiar grounds—no papers needed, Mann quipped light-heartedly. Outcomes: intensified bureaucratic huddles, multiple per month. ‘No more Supreme Court countdowns; the Centre pushes bilateral talks,’ he affirmed.
To encourage candor, officials will meet sans protocol, draft summaries, and brief leaders. Mann advocated traditional panchayat-style resolutions for modern governments. ‘No one’s rights should be usurped—neither Punjab’s nor Haryana’s.’
Saini reinforced unity, reciting Guru Nanak’s verse on nature’s sanctity. ‘Positive atmosphere yields positive results,’ he observed. Building on earlier ministerial sessions, they committed to Supreme Court-compliant processes. Officials’ conclusions will guide CM decisions.
Separated in 1966, the brothers seek harmony. Frequent interactions promise momentum, potentially averting court battles and securing sustainable water allocation for agriculture-dependent regions facing acute shortages.