Former CM Shanta Kumar criticizes Himachal Pradesh government’s U-turn on water release for Delhi

Shimla, June 13

Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shanta Kumar expressed shock and embarrassment over the state government’s reversal on its commitment to release water to Delhi, currently facing a severe water shortage. He daid that the Himachal Pradesh government had initially assured the Supreme Court of providing 137 cusecs of water to the national capital, a promise that brought relief to Delhi’s residents. However, the government retracted its assurance just two days later, citing a lack of surplus water.

Kumar criticized this abrupt change, calling it irresponsible and unprofessional. He emphasized that the state government should have conducted a thorough assessment before making any commitments to the Supreme Court. Filing an affidavit to promise water and then withdrawing it not only damages credibility but also appears immature and irresponsible.

The Supreme Court’s vacation bench has since intervened, ordering Himachal Pradesh and Haryana to release 137 cusecs of water to Delhi. This directive highlights the severity of Delhi’s water crisis and the need for cooperative federalism in addressing such issues.