Congress Lok Sabha member Manickam Tagore has requested an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha to address the Centre’s stance on construction activities along the Cauvery River, particularly the proposed Mekedatu project in Karnataka. Tagore emphasized the importance of safeguarding Tamil Nadu’s legal rights and the interests of its farmers in this matter. He highlighted the significance of the Cauvery River as a vital resource for farmers and millions of people in Tamil Nadu.
Tagore criticized the Union Government’s response in Parliament, expressing concerns over the potential impact of the Mekedatu project on Tamil Nadu’s water security and agricultural economy. He stressed the need for the Centre to uphold Tamil Nadu’s lawful share of Cauvery waters as determined by the relevant tribunals and the Supreme Court. The MP called for a fair and neutral approach from the Central government in addressing the concerns of all states involved in the Cauvery basin issue.
Referring specifically to the Mekedatu project, Tagore asserted Tamil Nadu’s right to oppose any development that could jeopardize its allocated share of Cauvery waters. He highlighted the long-standing uncertainties faced by farmers in the Cauvery delta region regarding water releases and urged for a comprehensive consideration of Tamil Nadu’s objections before approving any projects. Tagore emphasized the need for the Centre to prioritize the constitutional and legal rights of all states sharing the Cauvery River.
