CHANDIGARH: Punjab and Haryana’s chief ministers broke bread on the SYL canal imbroglio Tuesday, signaling a thaw in frosty relations with promises of regular parleys.
Bhagwant Mann led with empathy: ‘This issue lingers too long. Gurus inspire us—Haryana isn’t enemy territory; it’s family.’ Citing Bhai Kanhaiya’s wartime mercy, he broadened the lens: ‘Water scarcity threatens globally; SYL demands smart, fair division.’
Exhaustive talks ensued, memorized by heart. Mann humorously noted SYL overshadowing all chats with Saini. Forward plan: officer meets thrice-monthly or more, independent of judicial timelines. ‘Delhi and apex court endorse state-led talks,’ he underlined.
Streamlined protocol aims for frank exchanges, reports to CMs, and telephonic follow-ups. Mann invoked elders’ wisdom: seat parties, forge consensus. ‘Post-1966 split, equitable resolution aids all.’
Nayab Saini invoked Guru Nanak: ‘Pavan Guru, pani pita.’ The congenial vibe, he said, bodes well. Echoing prior Union-led discussions, they greenlit routine official engagements per court orders. Outcomes will inform leadership verdicts.
Optimism rises for dialogue-driven closure, prioritizing shared prosperity over litigation in this vital riparian feud.