Congress Stands Firm on Tamil Nadu Rights Amid Mekedatu Project Controversy

Congress MP Manickam Tagore has firmly stated that the party will not compromise on Tamil Nadu's rights concerning the Mekedatu dam project. His remarks come in light of ongoing political tensions between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, particularly following Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's controversial comments. The Supreme Court's recent dismissal of Tamil Nadu's review petition has added to the complexity of the situation. As Karnataka moves forward with its plans for the Mekedatu project, the implications for inter-state relations remain significant. Read on for a detailed analysis of the unfolding events.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 14:06 IST

Congress's Stance on Mekedatu Project

On Wednesday, Congress MP Manickam Tagore emphasized that his party will never compromise on the rights of Tamil Nadu, particularly regarding the Mekedatu dam project. He revealed that he did not attend the oath-taking ceremony of Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar due to the latter's objectionable remarks about the project. Tagore's comments come at a time when there is significant political opposition in Tamil Nadu against Karnataka's proposed Mekedatu balancing reservoir project on the Cauvery River, a matter that has long strained relations between the two southern states.

Political Tensions and Legal Developments

Speaking in Virudhunagar, the Congress leader reiterated that the party will not negotiate Tamil Nadu's rights. He pointed out that his absence from Shivakumar's oath-taking was a direct response to the Karnataka leader's stance on the Mekedatu issue. This statement followed Shivakumar's welcoming of the Supreme Court's dismissal of Tamil Nadu's review petition concerning the Mekedatu project. Shivakumar had described the court's ruling as positive news for Karnataka, expressing gratitude on behalf of the state government and noting that the matter is now in the hands of the central government.

Future Steps for the Mekedatu Project

Shivakumar also mentioned that Karnataka is in the process of submitting a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Mekedatu project. The controversy revolves around Karnataka's proposal to construct a balancing reservoir and drinking water project on the Cauvery River near the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border.

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