Chennai, June 19:
Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin on Friday made it clear in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has a consistent and unwavering stand that no dam should be constructed at Mekedatu.
Speaking during the debate on the special resolution against the proposed project, he stressed that the party has always prioritised the protection of Tamil Naduās water rights and would continue to oppose any move that threatens them.
Udhayanidhi Stalin asserted that the Mekedatu project, proposed by Karnataka across the Cauvery river, is against Tamil Naduās interests and would severely impact water availability for the state.
He emphasised that Tamil Nadu has been fighting for its rightful share of Cauvery water every year and warned that any additional dam upstream would further complicate the already sensitive water-sharing issue.
He reiterated that the DMKās position has remained unchanged over the yearsāthe project must not be allowed under any circumstances.
Highlighting the legal aspect, he pointed out that constructing a dam at Mekedatu would go against the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunalās final award and the Supreme Courtās directions.
He stressed that no state can unilaterally take up such a project without the consent of other basin states, particularly Tamil Nadu, which is heavily dependent on Cauvery water for irrigation and drinking purposes.
The DMK leader also underlined the impact on farmers, stating that lakhs of farmers in the Cauvery delta region rely on timely water release for agriculture. Any disruption caused by a new reservoir in Karnataka, he said, would directly threaten their livelihoods and agricultural output.
He described the issue not as a political matter but as one concerning water security, farmersā welfare, and Tamil Naduās rights.
During his speech, Udhayanidhi Stalin called for unity among all political parties in Tamil Nadu on the Mekedatu issue. He urged both the ruling government and opposition parties to stand together and exert pressure on the Union Government to reject the project outright.
He emphasised that protecting Tamil Naduās share of Cauvery water should transcend political differences and remain a common cause.
Reaffirming support for strong action, he insisted that the Centre must immediately reject the Mekedatu proposal and ensure that Tamil Naduās interests are safeguarded.
He also indicated that the state must continue to pursue all possible legal and political avenues to prevent the project from moving forward.