What’s Next for Odisha as PM Modi Discusses the Controversial Polavaram Project?
Odisha's Chief Minister Comments on Polavaram Project Discussions
On Monday, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to engage in discussions with the state's chief secretary and other officials, potentially addressing the contentious Polavaram project in Andhra Pradesh.
Majhi clarified that he was unaware of any planned meeting involving the chief ministers of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh on May 28 to deliberate on the project.
In response to questions from the press regarding media speculation about the PM's meeting with the chief ministers, he stated, "I lack information about the prime minister's meeting concerning the Polavaram project. However, discussions with the Odisha chief secretary and other officials are on the agenda, where the project may be a topic of conversation."
He emphasized that Odisha has specific concerns regarding the Polavaram project.
"Should there be a future meeting with the chief ministers regarding the Polavaram project, Odisha will definitely participate and advocate for the state's rights during the discussions," he added.
The Polavaram Dam has sparked controversy, with neighboring states like Odisha, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh expressing concerns over potential land and village submergence.
Currently, the issue is before the Supreme Court, with petitions from Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. The central government has classified Polavaram as a national project and allocated funds in the current budget.
In related news, Odisha's Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan criticized the previous BJD administration for not taking timely legal action against Andhra Pradesh during the early stages of the Polavaram project.
"The former government failed to address the issue promptly due to political motivations. Thus, the current government is left with negotiation and dialogue as the only viable options to resolve this matter. The present BJP administration will certainly advocate for Odisha's rights," the minister asserted.
Conversely, the opposition BJD party contended that it has long opposed the Polavaram project, warning that Odisha would face severe consequences if the dam's current design remains unchanged.
The party has actively campaigned against the Polavaram project both in Delhi and within the state, asserting that tribal villages would be at risk of submersion due to the dam's backwaters.
