A special session of the Tamilnadu Assembly on Thursday adopted a unanimous resolution strongly condemning the Centre for allowing Karnataka to prepare the detailed project report (DPR) for constructing a new dam at Mekedatu across the river Cauvery and demanded that it should be withdrawn. Kudos to all political parties for coming together on a common platform for the cause of the State.
The resolution,Ā moved by Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami and proposed by Leader of the House and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, was adopted unanimously after floor leaders of various parties expressed their concerns about Karnataka’s move and said it would affect the livelihood of the farmers, who would be deprived water for irrigation. DMK president M K Stalin thanked the government for convening the special session and said it was regrettable that the Central Water Commission (CWC) has granted permission for the project.
The Karnataka government has asserted that the proposed Mekedatu project was the right of the State and its lifetime dream but sought to reach out to Tamilnadu, which is strongly opposed to the scheme. Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy held consultations with his predecessors and former water resource ministers on irrigation schemes. The Tamilnadu Assembly passing aĀ unanimous resolution urging the Centre to withdraw the permission is seen as a positive step. This unity should continue.