The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) has requested the delay of the upcoming Cauvery Management Authority (CMA) meeting. The party emphasized the absence of elected governments in key stakeholder States due to ongoing Assembly elections. The 50th meeting of the Authority, slated for April 29 in New Delhi, is urged to be postponed until after new governments are formed in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry.
The CPM highlighted that the Cauvery water-sharing matter involves multiple States, necessitating careful consideration with the participation of duly elected governments. Holding such a significant meeting without elected representatives would not be suitable, according to the party. The CMA’s role includes overseeing water-sharing agreements, such as ensuring Karnataka’s annual release of 177.25 thousand million cubic feet of water to Tamil Nadu as directed by the Supreme Court of India.
The CPM leader expressed concerns about the undisclosed agenda for the April 29 meeting. This lack of transparency could hinder officials from presenting informed opinions without the guidance of elected governments, a customary practice for interstate matters. The party stressed that decisions made without political consultations may not align with the States’ interests, particularly on sensitive water-sharing issues that demand accountable leadership.
Amid escalating tensions over Cauvery water sharing, a persistent and contentious issue in southern India, the party urged the Centre to defer the meeting until the new governments take office. This move aims to ensure adequate political representation from all participating States at the forthcoming meeting.
