Overview

• Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has reiterated his opposition to the Bhakra-Beas Management Board's (BBMB) directive to release an additional 4,500 cusecs of water to Haryana, citing concerns over state water reserves.
• Mann announced a freeze on Punjab's financial contributions to the BBMB, which covers 60% of the board's operational costs, until a comprehensive audit of its expenditures is completed.
• Protests at the Nangal Dam, led by Mann and Punjab cabinet minister Harjot Singh Bains, have continued, with Mann warning of potential legal action against BBMB officials if water is released without Punjab's consent.
• The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered Punjab to refrain from interfering with BBMB operations, but the state government has defied these directives, accusing the BJP-led Centre of undermining state riparian rights.
• Haryana, which requested the surplus water, argues it is essential for its needs, while Punjab claims Haryana has already overdrawn its annual water quota by 103%.