Recent reports have highlighted a contentious issue surrounding water distribution in the northern regions of India, specifically focusing on Jammu and Kashmir's stance on diverting water to Punjab. The core of the debate revolves around a proposed plan to construct a 113-kilometer canal designed to redirect surplus water from the Indus River system, which includes the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers, to Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.

Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, has voiced strong opposition to this plan. His argument centers on prioritizing the needs of his own region, which he says is currently facing drought-like conditions. Abdullah questioned the rationale behind sending water to Punjab, especially considering what he views as a historical lack of reciprocity. He pointedly asked, "Why should I send water to Punjab? Punjab already had water under the Indus Water Treaty. Did they give us water when we needed it?"

Abdullah's concerns reflect a long-standing dispute between Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab, particularly concerning the Shahpur Kandi barrage project in Pathankot. This project, agreed upon in 1979 but only realized in 2018 after central government mediation, aimed to stop the flow of water from the Ravi River to Pakistan. Abdullah emphasized the historical grievances, stating, "Kitne saal unhone humein rulaya," which translates to "They made us cry for so many years."

The Chief Minister has made it clear that he will not permit the diversion of water until Jammu and Kashmir's own needs are met. He stated firmly, "I will never permit this. Let us use our water for ourselves first... for now the water is for us. We will use the water first, and then we will think about others." This stance underscores a commitment to prioritizing local water security amid concerns over scarcity.

India's broader strategy involves optimizing water usage from the Indus River system. The proposed canal aims to connect the Chenab River with the Sutlej, Ravi, and Beas rivers, ensuring that India fully utilizes its share of water as per the Indus Waters Treaty. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has stated that the government intends to deliver Indus waters to Rajasthan's Ganganagar through canals within three years.

The backdrop to this water dispute includes the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. This action and the larger plan to divert water have been framed as a response to security concerns and a move to ensure that water allocated to India is fully utilized within the country.

Omar Abdullah has also expressed his opinion that the Indus Water Treaty has been unfair to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.