Question 2 of 9intermediate🔍 AnalyzeShort Answer4 marks

What were the main provisions of the Punjab accord? In what way can they be the basis for further tensions between the Punjab and its neighbouring States?

Correct Answer

Main provisions of the Punjab Accord (Rajiv Gandhi-Longowal Accord) of July 1985:

  1. Transfer of Chandigarh to Punjab.
  2. Appointment of a separate commission to resolve the border dispute between Punjab and Haryana.
  3. Setting up of a tribunal to decide the sharing of Ravi-Beas river water among Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
  4. Provision for compensation and better treatment to those affected by militancy in Punjab.
  5. Withdrawal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act in Punjab.

Basis for tensions with neighbouring States:

The provisions could create tensions as Chandigarh's transfer to Punjab would affect Haryana's interests. The border dispute resolution through a commission could lead to disagreements between Punjab and Haryana. Most significantly, the river water sharing issue among Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan has been a major point of conflict. The Akali Dal had earlier launched a movement on the question of distribution of water between Punjab and its neighbouring States. These unresolved issues regarding territorial and water disputes could strain relations between Punjab and its neighbours.

Exercise: EXERCISES | Q: 3 | (Page 23)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The Punjab Accord was signed in July 1985 between Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Akali Dal leader Harchand Singh Longowal to bring normalcy to Punjab. The answer covers all five main provisions mentioned in the textbook. For the second part, the context clearly shows that water distribution was already a contentious issue - the Akali Dal had launched a movement on this question. The border dispute with Haryana and the Chandigarh transfer issue directly involve neighbouring states' interests, making them potential sources of inter-state tensions.

Solution Steps

  1. Step 1: Identify the Punjab Accord provisions from the 'Road to peace' section

  2. Step 2: List all five provisions - Chandigarh transfer, border commission, water tribunal, compensation, AFSPA withdrawal

  3. Step 3: For tensions, identify provisions involving neighbouring states - border dispute with Haryana, water sharing with Haryana and Rajasthan

  4. Step 4: Connect to the context about Akali Dal's movement on water distribution issue

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