1979 Punjab Power Pact a Sovereign Must: CM Omar tells LA

Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday asserted that the 1979 agreement between the Governments of Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab is a sovereign commitment that must be honoured in letter and spirit.
Replying to a supplementary question raised by MLA Basohli Darshan Kumar Chief Minister briefed Legislative Assembly about key issues related to the Ranjit Sagar Dam project, specifically focusing on compensation, local employment, and J&K’s entitlement to electricity. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the 1979 agreement with Punjab, which guarantees J&K 20 percent of the power generated at the Thein Dam and Shahpur Kandi Barrage. Despite a power sale agreement established in 2019, J&K currently lacks the necessary transmission infrastructure to receive this power. On the topic of compensation for families affected by the project, the Chief Minister reported that a total of ₹85.48 crore has been allocated, with ₹71.15 crore already released by the Punjab Government. However, ₹14.32 crore remains pending, and additional liabilities, including accrued interest and court-ordered payments, bring the total outstanding amount to ₹37.03 crore. The disbursement of compensation has been delayed due to incomplete documentation from some landowners, prompting the Deputy Commissioner to issue public notices for document submission. Regarding employment opportunities for affected families, the Chief Minister confirmed that discussions are ongoing with dam authorities to secure jobs for 816 families. He reiterated that employment will be provided in accordance with the Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy agreed upon by both governments, ensuring that eligible oustees receive jobs as stipulated.