SC Urges Punjab Govt to Steer Clear of Politics in SYL Canal Dispute

NEW-DELHI: In a pivotal hearing at the Supreme Court concerning the Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) canal dispute, the court strongly advised the Punjab government to refrain from politicizing the issue and emphasized that no entity is above the law. Expressing their displeasure with the Punjab government's approach, the court warned against necessitating stringent directives.

The Supreme Court reprimanded the Punjab government for its conduct during the hearing and directed them to proceed diligently in this matter. The court underlined that if the judiciary is moving towards a resolution, the Punjab government should also adopt a constructive and cooperative approach. The Supreme Court has further called for a detailed report on the developments in this case. The next hearing is scheduled for January 2024.

The Haryana government, during the hearing, expressed frustration with the prolonged dispute that has persisted for two decades. They criticized the Punjab government for displaying a lack of interest in finding a solution. The SC directed the Center to commence the survey of the current status of the SYL canal on the Punjab side, urging Punjab's cooperation. This survey will assess the land and canal development. The Supreme Court also stressed on the provision of adequate security by Punjab to officials involved in this survey.

Similarly, the Rajasthan government voiced concerns about the Punjab government's unprogressive stance in addressing the issue. The Supreme Court highlighted the near completion of the SYL canal in Haryana and urged Punjab to work towards a resolution. Reiterating their commitment to resolving this longstanding dispute, the Supreme Court expressed hope that the Punjab government would cooperate in finding a solution. Additionally, the Supreme Court sought a report from the central government on the current status of SYL canal construction in Punjab.