Bengaluru, Karnataka – Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has formally requested Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to defer his upcoming visit to Bengaluru, citing the prevailing tensions surrounding the Cauvery water-sharing dispute. The appeal from Shivakumar aims to create a more conducive atmosphere for dialogue between the two states, emphasizing that discussions should occur when relations are cordial and free from immediate protest or emotional reactions.
The proposed visit by Chief Minister Vijay, along with a delegation of five to six ministers, was scheduled for August 3. However, Shivakumar conveyed his request for a postponement, noting that an immediate meeting under the current circumstances might not be appropriate if it leads to protests against the visiting dignitary. He expressed a desire for a harmonious welcome for any guest from another state and stated that a decision on a future meeting date would be made after an all-party meeting scheduled for Sunday.
The Chief Minister’s decision was reached after consultations with his Cabinet colleagues and is intended to uphold peace and harmony between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Shivakumar expressed hope that increased rainfall in Karnataka would improve reservoir inflows, thereby fostering a more favorable environment for discussing the complex Cauvery water issue.
The Cauvery water dispute has been a long-standing point of contention between the two southern states, with recent developments including the Cauvery Water Management Authority’s (CWMA) order for Karnataka to release a specified amount of water daily. Karnataka’s decision to postpone compliance with this order, citing deficient rainfall and depleted reservoir levels, has further escalated the situation. This has led to widespread protests in Tamil Nadu and concerns among various political parties and farmer organizations about the potential impact of direct talks on the state’s legal position regarding the dispute and the proposed Mekedatu dam project.
The Mekedatu balancing reservoir project, intended to address drinking water needs in Bengaluru and surrounding areas, has been a significant point of friction. Tamil Nadu has consistently opposed the project, viewing it as a potential threat to its water share. Previous attempts at dialogue, including a proposed meeting between Shivakumar and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, did not materialize. The current request for deferment comes amidst a backdrop of political discussions and appeals from various quarters in Tamil Nadu cautioning Chief Minister Vijay against undertaking the visit, warning it could undermine the state’s stance in the ongoing water-sharing negotiations.
The Chenab Times News Desk