Ferozepur, Dec. 6 -- The Centre has cancelled the planned celebration for the 100th anniversary of the Gang Canal, which provides water from Punjab to parts of Rajasthan. The decision was made due to significant opposition and escalating political tensions, as authorities cited concerns over potential law-and-order issues.

The BJP high command even called back Union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, who was to preside over the event, after protests began brewing locally over the political symbolism of celebrating a canal that carries Punjab's water to Rajasthan.

Even within the state BJP, opinions were divided-several leaders warned that celebrating the 100-year-old canal could be misinterpreted and prove politically damaging. Intelligence in...