Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin Holds All Party Meeting on Cauvery Water Dispute with Karnataka
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin convened an All Party meeting to address Karnataka’s reluctance to release Cauvery water, as recommended by the Cauvery Water Regulatory Authority (CWRA). The meeting unanimously condemned Karnataka’s stance and resolved to pursue legal avenues if necessary.
CM Stalin expressed grave concern over Karnataka’s refusal to abide by CWRA recommendations despite adequate rainfall this year. He highlighted the critical nature of water access for Tamil Nadu’s agricultural needs and mentioned that last year, Tamil Nadu had to approach the Supreme Court to secure their rightful share of Cauvery water.
The All Party meeting articulated strong resolutions, including the immediate issuance of CWRA orders to Karnataka for releasing the stipulated Cauvery water. Stalin affirmed that if Karnataka fails to comply, Tamil Nadu is prepared to approach the Supreme Court once again to ensure justice.
The tensions have been fueled by Karnataka’s recent decision to restrict Cauvery water releases, citing local water scarcity concerns. This move has exacerbated longstanding grievances between the two states over equitable water distribution, with Tamil Nadu’s agricultural sector particularly affected.
Earlier in the day, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, expressed openness to dialogue but emphasized Karnataka’s obligations to manage its water resources effectively. He assured that Karnataka would cooperate in whatever way possible, signaling readiness to engage constructively despite the ongoing disagreements over water sharing.
The Cauvery water dispute remains a pressing concern despite intermittent efforts at resolution. The Karnataka government’s recent decision to release 8,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu, amidst broader concerns over water scarcity in several districts including Bengaluru, has further intensified the debate over equitable water distribution.
