"Let me look at it": Karnataka CM on Tamil Nadu assembly's resolution opposing Mekedatu Dam
Bengaluru, June 19
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Friday said he would examine Tamil Nadu Assembly's unanimous resolution opposing the Mekedatu Dam project before making a detailed comment.
Speaking to the reporters, Karnataka CM said, "Let me look at it. I can't go on with only your statement. Let me look at the stand and then I will react to it."
The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution moved by Chief Minister Vijay opposing the Mekedatu Dam.
The resolution received support from Congress, VCK in the House, marking a unanimous stand by the state assembly against the project. The resolution emphasises that any such project would violate existing legal frameworks and the rights of the people of Tamil Nadu.
The resolution moved by the Chief Minister stated, "This August House records its strong objection to the unilateral attempt of the Government of Karnataka to construct a dam across the Cauvery River at Mekedatu, without respecting the Final Award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal dated 5.2.2007 and the Judgment of the Hon'ble Supreme Court dated 16.2.2018, without obtaining the concurrence of the concerned basin States, and without securing any approval from the Union Government. Such an action is not at all acceptable.''
The resolution further calls upon the Central Government to withhold all necessary clearances for the project.
''This August House urges the Union Government not to grant any form of approval, including technical and environmental clearances, to the Mekedatu Dam Project proposed by the Government of Karnataka,'' the resolution states.
Highlighting the water scarcity in the region, the resolution noted, ''The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal and the Hon'ble Supreme Court have observed that the Cauvery Basin is a deficit basin and that the total available water in the basin has already been apportioned among the basin States. Therefore, no new project can be undertaken in the Cauvery Basin, nor can any additional quantity of water be utilised.''
— ANI
Reader Comments
Tamil Nadu's resolution is strong words, but what about the water needs of farmers in Karnataka? The Supreme Court already gave directions, and now Tamil Nadu is objecting again. Something needs to change.
Let's hope the central government takes a balanced view. Both states have legitimate concerns. Mekedatu could help Karnataka generate power and store water, but we must respect the tribunal's award. Tough situation. 🤔
I'm from Karnataka and I understand the frustration. But these water disputes only harm ordinary people. Why can't both governments sit together and find a solution? The courts, the politicians... It's always a blame game. 😢
Tamil Nadu's resolution is correct in pointing out the legal angle. You can't just build a dam without following the tribunal's award. But Karnataka also has a point about drinking water needs. The Union government needs to mediate properly, not just stay quiet.
The Cauvery issue is never-ending. Both states need water, but the river can't satisfy everyone. Mekedatu might help Karnataka but could harm Tamil Nadu agricultural lands. We need a scientific study and then a fair court decision. Enough of emotional politics. 🏞️
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