Centre Deploys CISF at Bhakra Dam Amid Escalating Punjab-Haryana Water Dispute

Punjab-Haryana Water Dispute: Amid growing tensions between Punjab and Haryana over water sharing, the Centre deploys CISF at Bhakra Dam to ensure security. Here’s what led to this move.

In a significant development amidst the ongoing water-sharing conflict between Punjab and Haryana, the Central Government has approved the deployment of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at the Bhakra Dam in Nangal. The decision, taken by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, underscores the growing seriousness of the dispute and aims to ensure the dam’s security amidst rising tensions.

Why CISF Has Been Deployed

The deployment decision comes after Punjab Police reportedly increased its presence near the Bhakra Dam in response to escalating protests over water allocation. A total of 296 CISF personnel posts have been sanctioned for the Bhakra Dam security wing. These personnel will be responsible for securing the dam infrastructure and maintaining law and order in and around the high-security installation.

A formal communication has been sent to the Director of Security and Consultancy of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). The BBMB has been instructed to make necessary arrangements, including accommodation, transport, communication tools, and other essential security equipment, for the smooth induction of CISF forces.

Backdrop: Punjab vs Haryana Over Water

The deployment follows an incident where BBMB Chairman Manoj Tripathi was gheraoed by protestors at a government rest house while supervising the release of additional water to Haryana. The protest erupted after Haryana reportedly exhausted its allocated water quota for the September 2024–May 2025 depletion period and requested more water. The move triggered backlash in Punjab, where tensions over water-sharing have been simmering for months.

Coincidentally, the central force’s deployment came on a day when the AAP-led Punjab government was celebrating what it termed a “success” in halting additional water release to Haryana. Celebrations in Nangal included statements from AAP leaders claiming victory for protecting Punjab’s share and interests.

Political and Administrative Fallout

This incident has added a new layer of complexity to the politically sensitive issue of river water sharing in North India. The deployment of CISF at a strategic site like Bhakra Dam sends a strong message about the Centre’s intent to maintain neutrality and ensure the safety of key national infrastructure.

However, the move may further deepen the rift between the two neighbouring states, both of which have longstanding disputes over water from rivers like the Sutlej, Beas, and Yamuna.

What’s Next for BBMB and CISF?

The BBMB has now been placed under pressure to fast-track preparations for the arrival of CISF personnel. According to officials, the CISF will not only guard the dam’s core operational zones but also play a role in intelligence gathering and crowd control, should tensions escalate further.

The Bhakra Dam is a critical lifeline for both Punjab and Haryana, not just in terms of irrigation, but also in power generation and drinking water supply. The Centre’s decision to bring in CISF marks a crucial turning point in the current standoff. As both states continue to defend their respective stands, the hope is that law and order will prevail, and a balanced, peaceful resolution can be reached.