India, May 31 -- Mann leverages Bhakra water dispute to boost pro-farmer image amid criticism

CHANDIGARH: Caught on sticky ground, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has attempted to transform the Bhakra water dispute with Haryana into a potent political tool to strengthen his profarmer image and deflect criticism over governance lapses.

The Mann-led AAP government in Punjab has faced severe criticism from farmers for using police force against protesting farmers at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders. But Mann's move to curtail Haryana's water share from the Bhakra Dam, terming it a "loot on Punjab's water," has not only helped counter the backlash over police crackdowns on farmer protests but also secured the backing of the Samyukta Kis...