Cauvery issue: Protecting farmers’ interests and upholding law both important, says D.K. Shivakumar

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized that protecting farmers' interests and upholding the law were both crucial aspects of addressing the Cauvery water dispute. Speaking at Bhagamandala in Kodagu district, he pointed out that the reservoirs in the State were not yet fully filled. Shivakumar highlighted the need for separate rules governing water-sharing during times of scarcity and distress, noting that the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) had issued the necessary directives.

He expressed concern that if water levels in the dams were to decrease, it could lead to significant hardship for farmers. Shivakumar stressed the importance of adhering to the law, warning that failure to do so might result in the state losing control of the dam and its operations being transferred to the Central government. He urged for well-informed decisions that would consider the availability of water for both drinking and agricultural purposes, in the hope of good rains and a successful harvest to ensure farmers receive their due.

Shivakumar also called for prayers for rain at Kiggalu, a designated site for such religious observances. He mentioned that the Deputy Commissioner, Department of Religious Endowments officials, and local MLAs would participate in these prayers. According to the Supreme Court, Karnataka is allowed to construct dams within its own boundaries, and the Central government has confirmed this to Tamil Nadu's MPs.

Shivakumar was confident that the construction of the Mekedatu dam would not affect the 177.25 tmcft of water annually allocated to Tamil Nadu.