The DMK has called upon the Union Government to constitute a tribunal to resolve the long-standing Mekedatu reservoir dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The party also demanded the immediate release of Cauvery water shares.

Key Takeaways

  • DMK demands a special tribunal to resolve the Mekedatu reservoir construction dispute with Karnataka.
  • The party urges the Centre to ensure Karnataka releases Tamil Nadu's rightful share of Cauvery water.
  • The resolution was passed during a virtual meeting of MPs attended by M.K. Stalin from London.
  • DMK emphasizes that Karnataka's stance is causing severe distress to farmers near the Mettur Dam.

In a significant political move, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has urged the BJP-led Union Government to constitute a high-level tribunal. This move aims to resolve the escalating dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka regarding the proposed construction of a balancing reservoir at Mekedatu.

The Cauvery Water Crisis and Agrarian Distress

During a virtual meeting of DMK Members of Parliament, presided over by party president M.K. Stalin from London, a formal resolution was adopted. The resolution highlights that Karnataka has consistently failed to comply with the final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal. The party pointed out that the inability to release the stipulated water share has directly impacted the Mettur Dam operations, preventing the opening of sluice gates and causing immense hardship to the farming community in Tamil Nadu.

Strategic Interventions and Legal Battles

The DMK reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Tamil Nadu's water rights. The resolution noted that under the leadership of M.K. Stalin, the party had successfully influenced the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to reject Karnataka's initial proposals for the dam. Furthermore, the party cited the Cauvery Water Management Authority's decision to return the detailed project report (DPR) as a victory for the state's interests. The party maintains that it will continue to block any unilateral construction efforts by Karnataka that infringe upon Tamil Nadu's water security.

Parliamentary Commitment

Beyond the Mekedatu issue, the DMK MPs have pledged to remain aggressive in both Houses of Parliament. They intend to raise a collective voice on all matters concerning the welfare and rights of Tamil Nadu, ensuring that the state's concerns are heard at the highest levels of the central government. This escalation suggests that the water dispute is set to remain a central theme in upcoming legislative sessions.