Tiruchy, Oct 2:
Congress Rajya Sabha MP Christopher Tilak has urged Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the Mekedatu dam project and the sharing of Cauvery water between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Speaking to reporters in Tiruchy, Tilak pointed out that Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar had convened an all-party meeting to discuss the Mekedatu project and Cauvery water issues.
He said Tamil Nadu should adopt a similar approach by bringing all political parties together to discuss the State’s position and formulate a common strategy.
Tilak urged political parties in Tamil Nadu to set aside differences and join hands in opposing the proposed Mekedatu dam project. The project has long been a contentious issue between the two States because of its potential implications for the flow and regulation of Cauvery water.
The Congress MP also criticised the Election Commission over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, alleging that decisions relating to the exercise had affected voters’ rights. He said the Congress would continue to raise the issue in Parliament and among the public.
On the October 6 bypolls to Madurantakam and Dharapuram, Tilak expressed confidence about the TVK’s prospects and said alliance partners were campaigning across both constituencies. He also said a reported issue over coordination between alliance partners had been resolved following discussions with TVK leaders.
The Congress MP’s call for an all-party meeting comes at a time when the Mekedatu issue has again gained political attention in both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.Madras HC refuses to dismiss Isakki Subbiah election case