The Sutlej-Yamuna canal is nearly 85% ready after decades in the making. More than 700 crores have been spent on it, with Haryana picking up most of the tab. (File photo)
With Punjab Assembly passing a resolution against construction of Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal, Haryana minister Anil Vij today hit out at the Punjab government over its "arrogant attitude" and asked its Chief Minister to honour the Supreme Courts' directive on the issue.
The Supreme Court on Thursday had directed maintenance of status quo on land meant for SYL canal after Haryana alleged that attempts were being made to alter its use by levelling it.
"The arrogant attitude of Punjab Government is not healthy for democracy. The Punjab CM should honour the order of the Supreme Court in SYL matter," Mr Vij said.
On Punjab Assembly's resolution over the issue yesterday, he said, "This move is like a head-on collision between the Judiciary and the Legislature."
"It is the Union Government's responsibility that Punjab strictly implements the Supreme Court direction regarding SYL Canal," Mr Vij said.
He also accused Punjab government of trying to "draw political gains" out of SYL issue as the state will have election next year.
On AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal supporting Punjab on SYL issue, the Haryana Cabinet Minister accused the Delhi Chief Minister of "betraying" his native land, Haryana.
"He should confine himself to Delhi instead of indulging in Haryana-Punjab matters," Mr Vij said.
Referring to Jat reservation issue, he said Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has already assured the leaders of the community about passing the Bill in the ongoing session of the Assembly.
Mr Vij also accused Congress of not attending the Assembly session as the party lacked "moral courage" to face the members.
"Congress not only boycotted from the all-party meeting (on SYL issue) but its MLAs did not attend Assembly session even after their suspension was revoked," he said.