Tamil Nadu CM Proposes Dialogue with Karnataka on Cauvery Dispute

Chief Minister's Stance on Cauvery Issue

Chennai, August 7 - The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, C. Joseph Vijay, announced on Friday that he was the one who suggested initiating discussions with neighboring Karnataka regarding the Cauvery water dispute, aiming for a constructive outcome. During a session in the assembly, he expressed his desire to avoid engaging in petty politics surrounding the issue.

In response to opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin, who raised the Cauvery issue, Vijay highlighted the various approaches Tamil Nadu has taken since 1969 to address the matter, which include considering negotiations and pursuing legal avenues.

He emphasized that his administration is committed to resolving the Cauvery dispute through legal means. Quoting the late Congress leader and former opposition leader in the Tamil Nadu assembly, P. G. Karuthiruman, Vijay remarked, 'The Cauvery issue needs to be handled with great care.'

Despite this, the Chief Minister mentioned that he contemplated traveling to Bengaluru to seek a resolution through dialogue, hoping for a positive outcome. He stated that he was even willing to endure humiliation for the sake of the people of Tamil Nadu in his efforts to negotiate on the Cauvery issue.

Vijay noted that he approached the situation with optimism, saying, 'I thought, what harm could come from talking to the neighboring state, as even countries considered bitter enemies communicate to resolve their issues.' He also acknowledged receiving various suggestions regarding his approach.