Delhi Minister Atishi Accuses Haryana of 'Illegal' Water Supply Disruption Amid Polls

In a press conference held on Tuesday, Atishi presented her case against the Haryana government, citing an affidavit submitted by the state in the Supreme Court as evidence. 

Haryana's Alleged Water Supply Reduction

According to Atishi, the affidavit filed by the Haryana government in the Supreme Court reveals that the state had reduced the quantity of water released to Delhi ahead of the elections on May 25. She stated, "Their affidavit filed in the Supreme Court presents the data on actual discharge of water which has exposed their lie." 

"Delhi went to polls on May 25, before that for four days they (Haryana government) reduced the water supply to the city, this is shown by their own affidavit filed in the Supreme Court," Atishi alleged.

Shortfall in Water Supply

The minister claimed that Delhi is facing a shortage of 40 million to 45 million gallons of water per day due to the stalled water supply from Haryana. She highlighted that the Delhi government has tasked its quick response team to inspect water distribution plants in the city to check for any leakages. 

Legal and Administrative Actions

Atishi expressed her intention to write to Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini regarding the matter and also approach the Supreme Court to present the data from the affidavit as evidence of the alleged water supply disruption.

Political Undertones 

The timing of the alleged water supply reduction, just days before the Delhi elections, has raised concerns about potential political motives behind the move. Atishi's accusations against the Haryana government, which is currently ruled by the BJP, come at a time when the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has secured a resounding victory in the Delhi polls. 

Water Crisis Looming

The alleged disruption in water supply from Haryana has the potential to escalate into a full-blown water crisis in the national capital. With Delhi heavily dependent on neighboring states for its water needs, any disruption in supply can have severe consequences for the city's residents. 

As the accusation gains momentum, all eyes will be on the actions taken by the respective governments and the Supreme Court's response to the matter. The water dispute between Delhi and Haryana has once again highlighted the complex web of political, legal, and administrative challenges surrounding the crucial issue of water management in the region.