High-Level Resignations Amid Water Dispute Between West Bengal and Centre

West Bengal Power Secretary Santanu Basu and the Chief Engineer of Irrigation and Waterways have resigned from their respective positions at Damodar Valley Corporation and Damodar Valley Reservoir Regulation Committee. These resignations come amid a conflict over the release of water from DVC reservoirs, leading to widespread inundation in West Bengal.

In a significant development amid the ongoing water dispute, West Bengal's Power Secretary Santanu Basu has resigned from the Board of Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC), officials confirmed on Sunday. His resignation is reportedly in protest against the unregulated release of water from DVC reservoirs, which has caused extensive flooding in the state.

Additionally, the Chief Engineer of Irrigation and Waterways, West Bengal, also stepped down from the Damodar Valley Reservoir Regulation Committee (DVRRC). The resignations come in the backdrop of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that DVC released water without consulting the state government, thereby inundating various districts.

Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil had responded to Banerjee's first letter, asserting that state officials were properly informed about the water release at every stage to avert a larger disaster. However, Banerjee has countered this claim in her second letter, arguing decisions were made unilaterally by Central Water Commission representatives without achieving consensus.

(With inputs from agencies.)