Intense Debate in Tamil Nadu Assembly Over Cauvery Water Dispute

Cauvery Water Dispute Sparks Heated Exchange

On Friday, a fierce debate erupted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly regarding the Cauvery water dispute and Karnataka's proposed Mekedatu dam. Chief Minister Joseph Vijay and opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin exchanged sharp criticisms, questioning each other's stance on the all-party meeting and the government's approach towards Karnataka. During the assembly discussions, Stalin demanded a 'special attention motion' on the Mekedatu issue and called for an all-party meeting, asserting that it would showcase Tamil Nadu's unity on this contentious project.

Opposition Questions Government's Actions

Udhayanidhi questioned why he was merely requesting an all-party meeting while Karnataka was consistently holding such gatherings. He expressed concern over the Tamil Nadu government's reluctance to convene a similar meeting despite Karnataka's united front on the matter. He pointed out that Karnataka had organized an all-party meeting to address their rights collectively and questioned why Tamil Nadu was not following suit.

Concerns Over Government's Communication

He also raised doubts about the Chief Minister's alleged proposal to visit Bengaluru for discussions with the Karnataka government. Udhayanidhi accused the government of leaking plans and then retracting them after facing criticism. He claimed that the administration was adopting a new strategy of leaking information and then backtracking when it became controversial. In response, the Chief Minister defended his government, stating that Tamil Nadu had already clarified its position on the Mekedatu issue.

Government's Firm Stance on Water Rights

The Chief Minister highlighted that the assembly had previously passed a resolution against the proposed dam and that he had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi opposing the project. He emphasized that there was no need for an all-party meeting and urged against politicizing the Mekedatu dam issue. He reassured that the government would not compromise on its rights concerning river water or the Mekedatu dam, stating he did not wish to engage in petty politics by revisiting old issues.

Commitment to Legal Solutions

Vijay reiterated that he did not want to indulge in 'cheap politics' by referencing past political events. He affirmed that his government would not compromise Tamil Nadu's rights over the Cauvery water. He acknowledged the need to address the Cauvery issue but criticized the opposition for politicizing it, asserting that they were fully committed to pursuing legal avenues to resolve the matter.