Chennai: The long-running dispute over water from the Cauvery is back in the political spotlight in Tamil Nadu. In the assembly, there was a fierce verbal fight between Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister Vijay and Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin regarding the proposal to build the Mekedatu dam in Karnataka.
There were accusations and counter-accusations from both sides on how to deal with Karnataka and safeguard the water rights of Tamil Nadu.
Questions by Udhayanidhi Stalin Over Vijay Government’s Standpoint
The whole fiasco began when Udhayanidhi Stalin, who is the Leader of Opposition, questioned the Tamil Nadu government’s stance on the plan of Karnataka to build the Mekedatu dam.
Bringing up the matter in the Assembly, he sought information about the measures adopted by the government of Tamil Nadu in stopping the construction of the dam.
Also, he questioned as to why the Vijay government did not want to hold an all-party discussion on the matter, as Karnataka showed unity among political parties in protecting their interests.
Vijay’s Strong Reply: “Ready To Be Humiliated For Tamil Nadu”
Responding to the allegations, Chief Minister Vijay defended his approach and said that dialogue with neighbouring states should not be viewed negatively.
“When hostile countries are trying to solve issues through talks, I thought of having talks with our neighbouring state. Even if I am humiliated, I am ready to face it for the people of Tamil Nadu,” Vijay said.
He also highlighted that the Tamil Nadu Assembly had already passed a resolution opposing the Mekedatu dam and that the matter had been communicated to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Mekedatu Dam: Why Tamil Nadu and Karnataka Are Fighting
The proposed Mekedatu reservoir project in Karnataka has been a major flashpoint between the two southern states for years.
Karnataka argues that the project will help meet Bengaluru’s drinking water needs and generate electricity. The state has maintained that Tamil Nadu’s allocated share of Cauvery water will not be affected.
However, Tamil Nadu has strongly opposed the project, fearing that the dam could impact the flow of Cauvery water to its farmers.
Vijay Targets Previous Governments Over Cauvery Issue
During the Assembly debate, Vijay also referred to the history of the dispute and said that the Cauvery issue should not become a matter of political blame games.
He said the focus should remain on protecting Tamil Nadu’s rights rather than deciding which political party gets credit.
Cauvery Dispute Becomes New Political Battlefield
The Mekedatu controversy has once again brought the Cauvery water dispute back into Tamil Nadu’s political spotlight.
With the Vijay government defending talks with Karnataka and the opposition demanding a tougher stand, the issue is expected to remain a major political flashpoint in the state.