Supreme Court rules in favour of Himachal Pradesh in BBMB dues case

In a significant decision, the Supreme Court has directed the states of Punjab and Haryana to provide 11,973 million units of electricity to Himachal Pradesh. This electricity will be supplied over the next 20 years against the outstanding dues of the Bhakra-Nangal and Beas hydroelectric projects. According to a report by The Hindu, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu described this decision as a historic victory for the people of the state on Friday, November 6, 2026.

This court order puts an end to a decades-old dispute regarding Himachal Pradesh's 7.19% share in the electricity generated from the projects. Chief Minister Sukhu stated in a statement that the state will now receive approximately 60 crore units of electricity annually during the lean season. Based on electricity tariffs, this is likely to generate revenue estimated between ₹10,000 crore and ₹20,000 crore over the next 20 years.

The Chief Minister further clarified that this decision could bring an additional annual income of up to ₹1,000 crore to the state. He calculated that even if the electricity rate is ₹6 per unit, Himachal Pradesh will earn at least ₹500 crore per year, while a rate of ₹13-14 per unit would significantly increase the returns.

Sukhu attributed this success to the state government's persistent legal battle and its determination to secure its financial rights. He described this victory as the fourth major success in protecting the interests of Himachal Pradesh, mentioning previous wins regarding the Wildflower Hall and Kishau Dam matters. The Chief Minister stated that the government is currently pursuing its claims regarding the Shanan Power Project and water cess as well.

This additional revenue will be used to strengthen education and health services, improve road infrastructure, generate employment, and ensure timely payment of financial benefits to government employees. Congratulating the approximately 75 lakh residents of the state, the Chief Minister said that protecting the state's resources and making Himachal Pradesh self-reliant is the highest priority of his government.